Melaka: Over 30 events are set to attract an estimated 30,000 visitors to the three-day Festival Seni Selat Melaka and Festival Sungai Melaka (FSSSM) 2025 from Oct 24 to 26 at Dataran Pengkalan Rama Pantai. Perbadanan Pembangunan Sungai dan Pantai Melaka (PPSPM) CEO Shaharul Azuar Idris highlighted the festival's focus on arts, culture, and heritage along the Straits of Melaka, aiming to boost cultural tourism in the state.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Shaharul Azuar Idris stated that the festival serves as a tribute to Sungai Melaka's historical role as a cultural and commercial hub. The event is envisioned as a platform to celebrate the historical and cultural significance of Sungai Melaka, promoting local creative products and tourism to a global audience.

The festival aims for recognition in the Malaysia Book of Records with initiatives like producing 50,000 Melaka Onde-Onde and showcasing the most traditional ethnic costumes. Spiritual elements are also included, with activities such as the Subuh Macam Jumaat Campaign and prayers at local mosques.

A Saloma Market with over 40 stalls will offer traditional products, complemented by talent contests, a local games carnival, and a podcast by heritage researcher Ninot Aziz. Arts and cultural events include a Joget X Zapin competition, a Tourism Kebaya Queen contest, and a Sustainable Culture Night, combining historical and modern performances to highlight Malay heritage.

Attractive prizes, such as RM15,000 for a fishing contest, are up for grabs. PPSPM also offers a 30 percent discount on Melaka River Cruise fares for those in traditional attire. The festival is positioned as a key event on Melaka's tourism calendar, aiming to boost the local economy and promote Sungai Melaka as a global cultural heritage site.