Jonker Walk expects record Chinese tourist arrivals

MELAKA: The iconic Jonker Walk night market is optimistic about recording a record-high number of Chinese tourists by the end of this year, contributing to the success of Visit Melaka Year 2024 (TMM2024).

Jonker Walk management committee chairman Datuk Wira Gan Tian Loo said he is confident of attracting three million Chinese tourists to the night market by year-end.

“The surge of Chinese visitors to Jonker Walk is largely driven by visa exemptions for travellers from China and extensive publicity from media outlets in the Middle Kingdom,” he said on Friday (Aug 23).

Gan reported brisk sales for traders and hawkers at the night market due to the increase in Chinese tourists over recent months.

Places of worship within the Jonker Walk tourism belt have also noted an increase in visitors following the rise in Chinese tourists.

“Economic activities throughout Jonker Street have been boosted by the tourism inflow, benefiting local eateries due to the high number of foreign patrons,” he said.

Gan stated that the committee is committed to preserving the millennia-old friendship between China and Malaysia. They have established a gallery showcasing the long history of friendly ties between the two nations.

The gallery was opened to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China.

“Visitors can see displays of various materials and art relating to cultural heritage and ties with China since the Melaka Sultanate era,” he said.

Gan noted a steady flow of officials and students from China visiting on study tours to understand the long history of cultural exchanges between the two countries.

Even mayors of major Chinese cities have participated in study tours to the state.

“We receive at least 20 delegates, including officials and educational groups from China, each month.

“Their visits to Melaka aim to foster mutual appreciation of cultural heritage and strengthen the bond between the two countries,” he said.

Gan added that his committee is ready to make TMM2024 a success for the state government by hosting more groups from China.

“We must also thank Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh for his efforts to attract Chinese tourists through intriguing campaigns,” he said.

Earlier, Ab Rauf mentioned that Chinese tourists continue to contribute significantly to the state’s tourist arrivals.

He said Chinese tourists are keen to visit attractions such as Jonker Walk, Bukit Cina, Stadthuys, Sam Poh Temple, Baba Nyonya, and Cheng Ho Museums, while enjoying various local cuisines.