Melaka Floating Market: A new jewel in night tourism

The much-anticipated Melaka Floating Market officially launched on 1 June, marking a significant milestone in the “Melaka Bila Larut Malam” (Melaka Nightlife) program. This initiative, aimed at invigorating the state’s tourism industry, has already garnered widespread acclaim from both domestic and international visitors.

Khairunnisa Ibno Masooda, Director of Management Services and Finance at the Melaka River and Coastal Development Corporation (PPSPM), currently acting as CEO, expressed enthusiasm over the market’s debut. “Around ten vendors have begun operations, offering a diverse array of food options,” she said, noting the market’s unique appeal. “With the addition of the Floating Market and the Windmill Pink Market, which began on 1 April, the Dataran PPSPM area has become a bustling hub for both locals and tourists.”

The “Melaka Bila Larut Malam” initiative, launched by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf, has successfully attracted substantial foot traffic. On the opening night alone, over 40,000 visitors attended, according to the Chief Minister’s press secretary, Ezlyn Fardiha Zainal. The event’s success is attributed to various attractions including the Melaka Zoo and the Melaka River Cruise, which have seen increased visitor numbers.

A Novel Shopping and Dining Experience

Inspired by Thailand’s renowned floating markets, the Melaka Floating Market offers a distinctive shopping and dining experience. Located at Phase Two of the Melaka River near the Melaka River Cruise Jetty Taman Rempah, this attraction is part of Melaka’s efforts to boost tourism during Visit Melaka Year 2024. Initially slated to open in February, the market faced delays due to vendor shortages but is now set to become a cornerstone of Melaka’s tourist offerings.

Visitors can explore a plethora of boats adorned with colorful merchandise, ranging from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and handicrafts. This market not only provides a unique shopping experience but also features floating restaurants where patrons can enjoy local and international delicacies while floating on the river.

Culinary Delights and Visual Spectacles

One of the market’s highlights is its extensive food offerings. Visitors can savor traditional Malay dishes such as nasi lemak and satay, alongside international options like Korean BBQ and Western burgers. The market’s famous coconut shake, made from fresh coconut water and blended with ice, is a must-try, especially on hot days.

Adding to the market’s allure are the breathtaking kinetic light shows that take place from Wednesday to Monday between 7:30 pm and 11:00 pm. These light displays transform the river into a magical spectacle, providing a picturesque backdrop perfect for photography. The synchronization of lights with the river’s natural flow creates an enchanting atmosphere that captivates visitors.

Enhancing Melaka’s Tourism Landscape

The Floating Market, coupled with the Windmill Pink Market, which now hosts over 100 vendors, has significantly enhanced the nightlife and tourism landscape in Melaka. The Windmill Pink Market itself started modestly with fewer than 50 vendors but has rapidly grown, demonstrating its popularity among visitors.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf’s initiative to offer discounted prices for after-dark sightseeing adventures has further boosted the attractiveness of Melaka as a nighttime destination. Key attractions participating in the initiative include Uptown Pahlawan Walk, Iconic Jonker Walk, One Altitude Melaka, and Leypark Station in Ayer Keroh.

Economic and Social Impact

The Floating Market is expected to draw a significant number of tourists, including an estimated one million visitors from China, thereby providing a substantial boost to the local economy. It is anticipated to create approximately 500 jobs, offering new opportunities for local vendors and artisans.

Hotelier Dennis Samford has already observed an increase in room occupancy since the launch of the Melaka Nightlife initiative. “Tourists are keen to experience the unique offerings of Melaka after dark, and the discounted prices for attractions and the river cruise have been a big draw,” he remarked.

Future Prospects

As Melaka prepares for Visit Melaka Year 2024, the Floating Market stands out as a pivotal attraction, promising to deliver memorable experiences to both locals and international visitors. The market operates daily from 4:30 pm to 2:00 am, excluding Tuesdays, offering free entrance and ample parking facilities.

Located at Jalan Pengkalan Rama in Kampung Pengkalan Rama Pantai, the Melaka Floating Market is set to become a premier destination, showcasing the rich cultural and culinary heritage of Melaka in a vibrant, dynamic setting. With its successful launch, Melaka continues to solidify its position as a top tourist destination in Malaysia, offering unique experiences that blend tradition with modernity.