THE narrow but historically rich Praya Lane in Bandar Hilir, Melaka, once the heart of the local Portuguese community, is set to regain its vibrancy with a large-scale celebration of the Pesta De San Juang (Feast of St John) planned next year.
Melaka Portuguese Eurasian Heritage Arts and Cultural Society chairman Martin Theseira said the festival will be given a new lease of life in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), aiming to attract both local and international visitors.
“The depth of cultural vibrancy that once defined Praya Lane will be revived through a series of initiatives.
“Next year, we aim to get residents to light their homes with candles during the feast, as was once the custom," he said in an interview on Tuesday (June 24).
On Monday (June 23), Theseira held a gathering at an 80-year-old traditional Portuguese house along the lane.
The building has been transformed into a community archive, a repository of oral histories contributed by past and present residents.
Theseira said the Pesta De San Juang, rooted in Portuguese tradition, is typically held on June 23 to honour St John the Baptist.
"It has long been celebrated by the Portuguese community with bonfires, candle-lit homes, music and gatherings that reflect a blend of religious observance and cultural pride," he said.
Theseira lit a traditional bonfire in symbolic remembrance of the past during the gathering, while also highlighting ongoing efforts to document the area's rich heritage.
"Praya Lane is not just a narrow street – it is a living memory of the Portuguese-Eurasian identity in Melaka.
"With renewed interest and community cooperation, Praya Lane is poised to be more than a heritage site.
"It's expected to become a beacon of cultural preservation and celebration for generations to come," he said.
Theseira also noted that the lane is home to 102-year-old Evelyn Low, believed to be the oldest surviving member of Melaka’s Portuguese community.
Local historian Joseph Sta Maria, who was present at the event, said Praya Lane served as the original home for the Portuguese community before the establishment of the more well-known Portuguese Settlement in Ujong Pasir in the 1930s.
"Before Ujong Pasir, it was here that our ancestors lived and built their identity.
“It's only fitting that we honour this history, especially with the national spotlight on tourism next year," he added.
