Melaka: The Bukit Melaka Telecommunication Tower in Banda Hilir, which has been upgraded to resemble the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, is poised to become a new tourism highlight for the state, attracting more visitors to the area. Historic Melaka City Council (MBMB) Mayor Datuk Shadan Othman announced that the country's first and oldest telecommunications tower has been revitalized with a budget of approximately RM270,000, ensuring it remains an operational beacon.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the renovation of the 76-metre tower involved structural enhancements and the addition of multi-coloured decorative lighting, transforming it into a captivating tourist attraction. This effort, in collaboration with Melaka ICT Holdings Sdn Bhd (MICTH), aligns with MBMB's preparations for World Tourism Day (WTD) and the World Tourism Conference (WTC) 2025, which are scheduled to take place from September 27 to 29.
Mayor Shadan highlighted that this new tourism feature offers visitors the opportunity to take memorable photographs with the red buildings and the Clock Tower as a scenic backdrop during their visit to Melaka. He shared these insights with reporters following the launch of the 2025 WTD Programme by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. The event was also attended by State Tourism, Heritage, Arts and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman.
In addition to the tower, Shadan announced the launch of the Tourism Cavalry Unit, which will be deployed around the Vehicle Free Zone in Banda Hilir on weekends and during the 2025 WTD. This unit consists of two horses and six MBMB enforcers, who will provide tourism services, ensure visitor safety, and serve as an added attraction in the area.
Shadan further emphasized MBMB's readiness as part of the coordinating committee for the 2025 WTD and WTC, ensuring the seamless execution of this international event. The conference will welcome over 150 tourism ministers globally, alongside representatives from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). MBMB is tasked with managing traffic efficiently and maintaining cleanliness and vibrancy at all event venues to ensure delegates' comfort and safety during their visit.