MELAKA:Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh officially inaugurated the newly reconstructed Tun Teja Pedestrian Bridge here on Friday (Feb 21) night, positioning it as a fresh tourism attraction for the historic state.
The bridge had earlier sparked controversy due to its RM8mil price tag, which had been questioned by Melaka's Opposition.
The bridge, which connects the Melaka Sentral bus terminal with nearby hypermarkets along Jalan Tun Razak here, had been met with scepticism, particularly from Melaka Opposition leader Dr Mohd Yadzil Yaakub, during its early days of construction in December 2024.
The Opposition leader argued that the construction cost was excessive and the bridge was predominantly used by foreigners, leaving many locals wondering about the justification for such an extraordinary expenditure.
In his speech, Ab Rauf said the Tun Teja Bridge has been significantly upgraded and rebranded to serve as a landmark attraction while also creating economic opportunities for the local community.
He said that the bridge pays homage to Tun Teja, a renowned female figure from the golden era of the Melaka Sultanate.
“This pedestrian bridge has been rebranded as a tribute to Tun Teja, a highly revered figure in the history of the Melaka Sultanate.
"Besides being known for her beauty and noble character, she was also respected for her wisdom and bravery,” he said.
Ab Rauf noted that the architectural design of the bridge is inspired by the grandeur of the Melaka Palace, incorporating traditional elements that reflect the state's rich cultural heritage.
"The structure is adorned with vibrant colours derived from the Melaka state flag—red, blue, yellow, and white—further reinforcing its identity as a symbol of local pride," he said.
Ab Rauf said that beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bridge is positioned as a key infrastructure upgrade, improving accessibility between Melaka Sentral bus station and surrounding commercial hubs, shopping malls and residential areas.
"The bridge is not only a public facility but also a tourism feature that aligns with the upcoming World Tourism Day 2025 (WTD2025) celebrations and Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“This facility enhances accessibility and provides greater convenience for users. More than just a tourism icon," he added.
The Tun Teja Pedestrian Bridge is also equipped with kiosks, creating business opportunities for the local community.
