Melaka: The state government will introduce seven new initiatives under the Pay Less, See More concept next year, marking a more progressive phase in conjunction with Visit Melaka Year and Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh announced these initiatives, which aim to enhance the tourism experience while maintaining affordability.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the first initiative, the Melaka Integrated Tourism Package, allows visitors to experience five of the state's key attractions for a single, affordable price. These attractions include the Melaka River Cruise, Menara Taming Sari, Flor de la Mar Maritime Museum, Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum, and a cultural performance at Panggung Bangsawan.
The second initiative introduces the Melaka Smart Tourist Card (MSTC), which grants visitors exclusive discounts at various locations and major attractions throughout the state. This effort is complemented by the Hop On Hop Off Cruise package, enabling visitors to park their vehicles at designated areas and conveniently board or disembark at any jetty along the Melaka River Cruise route. Visitors must purchase a one-day or three-day cruise pass available at an affordable rate, valid from morning until night. They are also encouraged to stay at hotels or homestays located along Sungai Melaka.
Ab Rauf highlighted that the Cruise and Cultural Pass, which includes tickets for the Melaka River Cruise and visits to Kampung Morten or Panggung Bangsawan for traditional cultural performances, will also be introduced. Another initiative, the Taste of Melaka Trail @ Sungai Melaka, offers vouchers worth between RM20 and RM30, allowing visitors to enjoy iconic local dishes such as asam pedas, cendol, kuih keria, and other heritage delicacies.
For tourists staying in Melaka for three days and two nights, a special hotel and accommodation initiative will provide complimentary tickets to selected attractions, including the Melaka River Cruise, Sungai Linggi Eco Cruise, Tasik Chin Chin Eco Cruise, or Menara Taming Sari. Additionally, special discounts for school and university students to visit historical sites will be introduced under the Cultural Pass for Students initiative.
These initiatives are part of the state government's efforts to establish Melaka as a model state and a benchmark for excellence in Malaysia's tourism landscape. Furthermore, Melaka recorded 13.5 million tourist arrivals between January 1 and September 30 this year, a 25 percent increase compared to the same period last year, significantly boosting the state's economy, social development, and overall image.