Malaysia Photowalk Series: Melaka

Melaka: This Is Home, and Everyone’s Invited

My friend asked me why I love Melaka so much when it’s just such an ordinary place; even Calle Crisologo looks better than it. I didn’t know exactly what to say. All I know is that I feel glad, cheerful, joyous, and every other synonym of happy you can think of when I’m here. Melaka feels like a home away from home. It’s apparent in every face I see of people from all walks of life and all parts of the world roaming around and just having the time of their lives.

I feel it when the Chinese shop for their local delicacies at San Shu Gong at more affordable prices; I feel it when the Caucasians point their DSLRs to capture the lovely sights and moments only Melaka can offer; I feel it when locals welcome me to their different museums, cafes, and shops with a big smile on their faces, even making small talk because everyone can know everyone here; I feel it when I ordered authentic Takoyaki at a stall in Jonker Walk and these two Japanese girls were preparing it for me while conversing like the happy siblings that they are; I feel it when a group of senior citizens doesn’t have a care in the world so long as they can sing and dance their hearts out at the center of the city.

I feel at home here, and everyone I see does, too, I think. Melaka is home, and I will always be in love with it.