05-07-2025
Melaka's timeless allure, refined for a new generation of travelers
As Malaysia steadily draws the curtain open for Visit Malaysia 2026, few destinations shimmer with as much timeless allure and modern promise as Melaka.
As new hotels begin to take root in Melaka's evolving tourism landscape, including a recent addition by Dusit International, Sinar Daily caught up with the brand's COO, Gilles Cretallaz, for a broader conversation on how heritage and hospitality can coexist in a city shaped by history.
He observed that few places in Southeast Asia offer the kind of architectural preservation found in Melaka, a feature that continues to captivate both seasoned travellers and first-time visitors.
For Cretallaz, Melaka's architectural integrity isn't just aesthetic — it's a rare link to the region's layered past, preserved in ways few Southeast Asian cities can still claim.
"The history of Melaka is impressive. I always say that there's not so many places in Southeast Asia, where you still have these heritage buildings. Thanks to Unesco for supporting these sites," he said to Sinar Daily. Dusit International's Chief Operating Officer, Gilles Cretallaz
As Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026, Cretallaz envisions Melaka evolving further as a major tourist hub. He emphasised the importance of maintaining the city's historic core.
'The old city of Melaka is well-protected and that's crucial. Moving forward, we can enhance the experience by adding more authentic and interactive activities.
"A sophisticated night market or opportunities for deeper engagement with local communities could elevate the visitor experience," he suggested.
He also noted the promising potential for growth in the hospitality sector.
'More hotels will undoubtedly emerge, which is beneficial for the state and the local economy. It means more jobs for the community and greater support for tourism,' he said. Check out the Melaka Straits Mosque. Photo: Canva
As efforts intensify for Visit Malaysia 2026, the city's bright future looks set to shine even more brilliantly on the global stage.
What's new in Melaka: Fresh attractions and cultural gems to explore
Melaka isn't just leaning on its laurels — it's actively reinventing itself to meet the tastes of modern travelers. Here's what you should explore:
The Shore Sky Tower : The tallest building in Melaka, The Shore Sky Tower offers panoramic 360-degree views of the city and the Straits of Melaka. Brave the glass-bottomed Sky Deck for a thrilling perspective.
Encore Melaka: This mesmerising 75-minute theatre show features 200 local performers and uses state-of-the-art 360-degree rotating audience seats to tell the story of Melaka's multicultural history.
Mural art trails and street installations: New street art installations in areas beyond Jonker Walk, including Kampung Morten and Jalan Tukang Besi, invite Instagrammers and art lovers alike to explore deeper pockets of local creativity.
Melaka river cruise 2.0: The river cruise has expanded with new commentary in multiple languages and curated night rides that show off Melaka's shimmering riverside like never before. A quaint Melaka boutique keeps tradition alive with its vibrant display of hand-embroidered Nyonya kebaya. Photo:Canva
Pop-up night markets and artisan fairs: Seasonal markets are popping up across the city, offering artisanal food, handmade crafts, and live music. Keep an eye out for events in Dataran Pahlawan and Kota Laksamana.
Revamped museums & heritage homes: Restorations at the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum and the reopening of Villa Sentosa in Kampung Morten mean deeper cultural immersion is just a ticket away.
