MELAKA: The Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum here stands as a cherished cultural beacon, preserving the soul of Melaka’s Peranakan community for the past four decades, says Datuk Lim Ban Hong.
Speaking at the museum’s 40th anniversary celebration at a leading hotel on Saturday (July 19), the Klebang assemblyman praised the museum’s lasting legacy since its establishment in 1985, calling it more than just a historical site but a living testament to family dedication and community pride.
“Forty years is no small feat, and what began as a humble family initiative has grown into an iconic cultural institution known far beyond our shores,” he said.
Lim shared that the museum, housed in the ancestral home of the Baba Chan Kim Lay's family, offers a unique window into the lives, values and aesthetics of the Peranakan community.
“It’s a living archive, a time capsule where history is not just displayed but felt.
"This museum is a 'Rumah Penuh Jiwa' (a house full of soul) where every embroidered kebaya, every piece of furniture, every porcelain dish carries with it a story of resilience, elegance and cultural fusion,” he added.
Lim highlighted the museum’s role in shaping cultural appreciation among the younger generation, saying it helps foster greater understanding between communities and strengthens Malaysia’s shared identity.
“It teaches us that heritage is not just about the past but who we are today and how we carry these values forward,” he said.
He also pointed to Melaka’s growing popularity as a cultural and tourism destination, noting that the state attracted 15 million tourists during Visit Melaka Year 2024.
“This clearly shows that Melaka’s charm and rich heritage continue to resonate with visitors.
“We will see a better momentum for the tourism industry this year with Malaysia set to chair Asean and host World Tourism Day, where the Historic City has been chosen as the venue," he said.
Lim said the state government has now set an ambitious target of 16.5 million tourists for 2025, with even bigger goals in sight for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“We are not just preserving heritage but bringing it to life and sharing it with the world," he said.
