Melaka: Melaka will host the 2026 Cultural Exchange Festival: Celebrating Cross-Cultural Heritage, bringing together the heritage and cultures of Malaysia and Southeast Asian countries in Banda Hilir from Oct 31 to Nov 2.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Melaka Tourism Promotion Division (BPP) general manager Nasrul Ahmad stated that the three-day programme organized by the National Heritage Department would feature activities such as seminars, talks, conventions, exhibitions, cultural performances, and food. Participation will involve Malaysian states and ASEAN countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with final participant numbers yet to be confirmed.

Nasrul mentioned that a coordination meeting with relevant parties is scheduled for Sept 29 to finalize preparations. The National Heritage Department will handle participation details. The programme's highlight is scheduled for Oct 31, featuring the opening ceremony and Cross-Cultural Heritage Parade, showcasing ethnic groups and cultures from Malaysia and regional countries along the Banda Hilir area.

He added that Melaka, as the host, will provide logistics and venues for the programme, including the People's Museum for the convention and the Malay and Islamic World Museum (DMDI) for exhibitions. Various activities will also take place at the Malacca Malay Sultanate Palace Museum grounds.

Nasrul also indicated that the festival would feature a Mak Yong performance, emphasizing intangible heritage, along with cultural performances from participating countries, such as lion or dragon dance performances from China. The programme aims to enhance local and regional cultural heritage through educational and cultural activities in the historic Banda Hilir area. It is expected to boost Melaka's tourism activities and benefit traders around the event area.