Ala Eiffel Tower Telecommunication Tower - New Tourism Icon In Melaka

MELAKA, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- The Bukit Melaka Telecommunication Tower in Banda Hilir here, which has been upgraded to resemble the Eiffel Tower in Paris, is set to become the state's new tourism icon aimed at attracting more visitors.

Historic Melaka City Council (MBMB) Mayor Datuk Shadan Othman said the country’s first and oldest telecommunications tower, which remains operational, has been given a new look with an allocation of about RM270,000.

He said the upgrading works on the 76-metre tower included structural repairs and the installation of multi-coloured decorative lighting to enhance its appeal as a new tourist attraction.

“This initiative, carried out in collaboration with Melaka ICT Holdings Sdn Bhd (MICTH), is part of MBMB’s preparations for World Tourism Day (WTD) and the World Tourism Conference (WTC) 2025, which will be held from Sept 27 to 29.

“With this new tourism product, visitors will have the chance to capture memorable photos with the red buildings and the Clock Tower as a backdrop during their visit to Melaka,” he told reporters after the launch of the  2025 WTD Programme by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh last night.

Also present was State Tourism, Heritage, Arts and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman.

Shadan said that apart from the tower, MBMB also launched the Tourism Cavalry Unit, which will be stationed around the Vehicle Free Zone in Banda Hilir during the weekend and the 2025 WTD.

He said the cavalry comprises two horses and six MBMB enforcers who will provide tourism services, help maintain visitor safety, and serve as an additional attraction in the area. 

Meanwhile, Shadan said that as one of the agencies on the 2025 WTD and WTC coordinating committee, MBMB is fully prepared to ensure the smooth running of the international programme, which will be attended by more than 150 tourism ministers from around the world, as well as representatives of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).

“MBMB is responsible for ensuring smooth traffic management and maintaining a clean and vibrant environment at all event locations so that delegates feel comfortable and safe during their stay,” he said.

-- BERNAMA