Baba-Nyonya, also known as Peranakan or Straits Chinese, is the descendants of noble Chinese who migrated to the British Straits Settlements of Singapore, Malacca and Penang, and adopted the Malay culture. This unique blend of cultures is born after the intermarriages between them and the local Malay.
This interesting and exceptional culture and its heirloom can now be seen at the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum. It is located at Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Melaka, and is run by the local Babas (males) and Nyonyas (females).
Established in 1896, the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum illustrates the way of living of the Peranakans, a unique blend of the east and the west.
Tips for Travelers
As you enter the museum, you get to see the historical artifacts that are unique to the cultural heritage treasured by the Baba and Nyonyas of Melaka. The museum, which is run privately, tells you everything you need to know about this community in Malaysia. You can learn each and every bit of their history, culture and way of life within the four walls of this wonderfully designed building.
Among other things, one object that will capture your attention is an example of the Chinese tradition of foot-binding which was common among girls of Baba Nyonya. You can find the beautifully crafted and intricately designed miniature shoes presented next to the black and white photo exhibit of early Melaka.
How should visitors get to the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum?
The museum is located on Heeren Street, which is parallel to Jonker Street, at the heart of the town of Malacca.
You can also get to the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum by taxi if you are visiting Melaka for a short trip. The taxi will cost you no more then RM 15.
If you have plenty of time then do consider taking a city bus. You can get off near bus stop number 3, which is known as the “Baba & Nyonya Heritage” bus stop.
Approximate Touring Time
The approximate touring time for Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum is about 2 hours.
Nearby Attractions
There are plenty of attractions nearby the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum. A few of them are:
- The Stadthuys
- Christ Church Melaka
- The Maritime Museum
- Melaka River Cruise
- Jonker Walk
There are also a couple of attractions within about 15 to 20 minutes of walking distance:
- Menara Taming Sari (a revolving observation deck from a height of 80 meters)
- St. Paul’s Hill (A’Famosa)
- Dataran Pahlawan MegaMall
- Mahkota Parade Shopping Mall
- Dutch Fort
- Istana Museum Melaka
Visiting Hours
The Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum is closed on Sundays and public holidays. The visiting time is 10 am to 12:30 pm, and 2 pm to 4:30 pm.
Admission Charges
Admission charges for Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum are:
- RM8.00 for Adults
- RM4.00 for children (5-12 years old).
For more information, please contact:
The Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum
48, 50 Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock
75200 Melaka,
Melaka, Malaysia.
Telephone : +606-283 1273