Free entry to Melaka attractions as part of state tourism initiative
We often see the streets of Kyoto, Shanghai, and Seoul peppered with tourists wearing traditional attire while visiting local attractions there. This might soon be a common sight in Malaysia as well, as Melaka aims to offer free entry to state-run attractions in the historic city next year for those who don the Nyonya Kebaya, a hallmark of Peranakan heritage.
What is Nyonya Kebaya & how is it related to Melaka?
For the uninitiated, the Nyonya Kebaya is a traditional attire worn by the women of the Baba-Nyonya community in Malaysia, concentrated in the state of Melaka. The traditional blouse-dress combination features intricate embroidery and flower motifs that showcase the exchange of cultures. Its embroidery and stitching combine Chinese, Malay, and European elements woven together in cloth.
Image credit: Bernama
In 2024, the Melaka state government appointed Chinese actress Fan Bing Bing as a tourism ambassador, and she was seen wearing a Nyonya Kebaya.
Chinese actress Fan Bing Bing wearing a Nyonya Kebaya.
Image credit: @bingbing_fanvia Instagram
A preservation of Melaka’s Peranakan heritage
According to a report by The Star, Melaka Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Jusoh, shared that tourists donning traditional Nyonya Kebaya attire “will soon enjoy complimentary entry into several popular attractions, including the Melaka Zoo”.
The popular Melaka River Cruise is also expected to offer free tickets to those who don the traditional cultural outfit, under the initiative.
Image credit: Zoo Melaka
The Melaka Chief Minister added that the initiative aims to promote and preserve Peranakan culture and heritage of the Nyonya-Baba community, which has been a cornerstone of the state’s deep-rooted traditions and cultural environment in preparation for Visit Malaysia 2026.
Complimentary tickets to Melaka attractions for Nyonya Kebaya-clad tourists
Visit Malaysia 2026 is slowly approaching now that we’re in the final few months of the year, and Melaka is gearing up to be a stand-out tourist destination for international and local visitors.
To note, the state has yet to announce the list of local attractions eligible for this initiative. Furthermore, the state has not yet verified if this initiative is limited to Nyonya Kebaya only.
Cover image adapted from: Bernama, Zoo Melaka