MELAKA: The Straits Chinese community hopes to play a significant role in the 50th-anniversary celebration of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China to be held in Melaka, says the Malaysia Baba and Nyonya Association chairman.
Datuk Ronald Gan said their ancestral link with China could provide opportunities for the tourism industry players in the state during the celebration.
"Our heritage can be promoted as cultural tourism through China's past connection to Melaka.
"This will give the new generation of the Chinese to discover the culture of the community," he said in an interview on Wednesday (April 24).
"Hence, we are prepared to be part of this memorable celebration," he said.
Gan said the Peranakan Chinese community settled in the state as early as the 14th century and had already been recognised as natives.
He added that this was why some 200 plots of Malay Customary Land in the state during the British rule belonged to the Peranakan Chinese.
“Most of these properties are in Klebang, Tanjung and Bukit Rambai," he added.
On March 26, Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the historic city is set to host a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Malaysian and Chinese diplomatic ties.
He said the state is well known among Chinese tourists and is the most suitable venue to host the golden celebration.
He said this is due to the state’s long history of relations with China, which began over 600 years ago.
