When discussing rich heritage and streets steeped in history, there is truly no place that compares to Malacca, Negeri Bersejarah. For many of our international mobility students visiting Malaysia for the first time, exploring the heart of this historical city offered a memorable glimpse into the nation’s cultural essence.

Led by the BUDDIES Association of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), the vibrant cultural exploration day trip began in the lively streets of Jonker Walk, where students were immersed in the district’s colourful atmosphere—lanterns overhead, colonial-era architecture lining the alleys, and a tapestry of sounds, scents, and textures unique to Malacca. From browsing local handicrafts and textiles to catching glimpses of Baba Nyonya culture, the students were fully engaged in the living history around them.

A notable highlight of the day was the visit to one of Malacca’s most iconic colonial landmarks, the Stadthuys, where students paused to capture the moment, immortalising their experience against the backdrop of vibrant red walls and time-worn cobblestones.

Of course, no visit to Malacca would be considered complete without a stop at A Famosa, a 16th-century relic of Portuguese architecture, alongside other nearby historical sites that further deepened the students’ appreciation of Malaysia’s diverse and layered heritage.

The day ended with a tranquil visit to Pengkalan Balak Beach, where students enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the shoreline together. They took in the coastal breeze and scenic views before returning to the PUTRA International Centre on a quick bus ride.

More than a mere cultural or educational experience, the trip constituted a significant and unforgettable occasion of connection, bringing together mobility students, the BUDDIES Association, and the i-PUTRA staff in a collaborative journey of learning, exploration, and camaraderie.

Date of Input: 10/07/2025 | Updated: 11/07/2025 | nurulshabila