Malacca - A total of RM3.3 million is being spent to make the Historic City a haven for families, especially children.
"By attracting the children we can promote the state as a ultimate family destination," said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam, especially when touching on the transformation of the Sungai Melaka and its surrounding area into a "playground" for children and adults alike.
With plans for theme parks to be located along the once famous Sungai Melaka, which in the 15th century was bustling with traders and vessels from all over the world, Mohd Ali said the river would see a transformation within the year.
"We are in the midst of completing the smaller Eye on Malaysia ferris wheel on the banks of the Sungai Melaka.
"Called the Malacca Eye, the 25m-high ferris wheel from Hong Kong is expected to be a far better attraction than the Eye on Malaysia at Taman Titiwangsa as it will have two added attractions built next to it - a trampoline bungy and a pirate ship. Its 16 gondolas can sit five people each.
"We would also be building the replica of Kapal Dendang Berahi, the ship in which Sultan Mansur Shah sailed to Majapahit to marry a princess there, while the second, to be named Kapal Laksamana Cheng Ho, is a replica of the vessel used by the famous admiral.
"Also in the pipeline is a water mill which will be built at the waterfront along Jalan Kota.
"This is intended to demonstrate to tourists how water was drawn from the river for drinking purposes during that era," said Mohd Ali.
"The main attraction will be RM21 million Malacca Tower, designed in the shape of the Taming Sari Keris, the traditional Malay weapon used by Hang Tuah, the legendary warrior of the Malay Sultanate in the 15th century."
The tower would provide a panoramic view of the scenic city and the development in surrounding areas, from 80 metres above the ground. The 110m tower, with a rotating cabin could accommodate 80 people.
He also said the shops at Jonker Walk would be lighted up as part of the Sungai Melaka beautification programme.
Source: www.nst.com.my (27 Oktober 2007)
