DESTINATION—Melaka River, Malaysia. - River Origins, Destinations and Confluences on Waymarking.com

The Melaka River runs from central Malaysia westwards, at a languorous pace, to the Straits of Malacca, which now, and for the past five centuries, has been one of the busier water routes of the world. The City of Melaka is centred on the river mouth, effectively bisecting the city.

In times past the river played a greater role in regional and world trade. Ships sailing east and west, laden with exotic cargoes, stopped here on the long journey. Also products from the interior were sailed to the port. This activity made the city an important military target. In short, each of the major European empires of their time ruled Melaka, and its River. This included the the Portuguese, the Dutch and finally the British (the Japanese ruled for several years during WWII). Prior to foreign imperialism a local Sultan ruled the region. Now, the city and state of Melaka are part of Malaysia. In recognition of the importance of the city and region, the 'old' town (officially the Core Conservation Zone') is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the early 2000s the River underwent an extensive rehabilitation program. The city area of the River now carries little cargo, but is now an attraction, replete with tours and tourists, and lined with shops and restaurants.

The waymark point is the bridge centre, which is lies near and extends over the River mouth. The land to the north of the River was blocked by a rather severe fence. I did not have time to visit the southern side of the mouth. There is extensive parking (though it may be filled with tour buses) on either side of the bridge.

Parking Coordinates: Not listed Trailhead Coordinates: Not listed Relevant Web Site: Not listed

Visit Instructions:
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2. Date of your visit.
3. At least one original photo (DO NOT include either you or your GPSr).

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