Friday, April 25, 2014

Melaka City, Malaysia - The Melaka River

The Melaka River passes through the historic quarter of Melaka's city centre. Centuries ago, it was a busy and strategic trading port in Southeast Asia. The river's mouth silted over the centuries and eventually loss its importance as a port. Fast forward into the 20th century, the river leading to the mouth of Melaka River turned heavily polluted. I remember the river was filled with rubbish (when I visited the place in the 90s) and was more like the 'Melaka Sewer' with ts pongy smell.

Things changed at the turn of the century. The river has been cleaned-up and the pong gone, though the river is still considered polluted. The river banks have been spruced and the dirty old building along the river have been painted white. There are now sidewalks along both sides of the river and if you explore the area, you can find a few small cafes and restaurants. I should have taken photos of the 'Melaka Sewer' when I was there in the 90s and compare it with today.

Melaka River in Melaka, Malaysia
The Melaka River

Sidewalk along the Melaka River in Melaka, Malaysia
Sidewalk along the Melaka River

Cruise boat on the Melaka River in Melaka, Malaysia
Cruise boat on the river


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