Malacca Culture & Heritage

In Malacca,there are a few descendants communities that are still practicing their enchanters' traditions which are Peranakan and Portuguese culture that become one of the attraction towards tourist and visitors. The Peranakan and Portuguese descendants in Malacca today are the result of the state's long history with trading and colonisation by Oriental and Western powers.

The Baba Nyonyas 

Peranakans is basiccaly came from Chinese migrants who first came to Malacca many centuries ago. They have unique heritage unlike any other culture. Peranakans are also referred to a 'Straits Chinese'.

'Babas' refer to male Peranakans while 'Nyonya' refer to females. Often Nyonya is used to substitute the term 'Peranakan' as well. In terms of dressing, the women wear traditional Malay costumes, which is 'Baju Kebaya', a form of blouse woven with silk. Foot-binding, a practice carried over from China, used to be common among the affluent folk but over the centuries, but it is no longer practised and for some reasons. Perhaps the Peranakan's most famous legacy is Nyonya food, a fusion of Malay ingredients with Chinese cooking styles. Some of the most popular dishes include 'Belacan', 'Assam Laksa', 'Cendol' and 'Kuih Talam'. Usually Peranakans speak their own dialect called 'Baba Malay' with some elements of the Hokkien language. They also have their traditional musical entertainment form which is the 'Dondang Sayang'; or 'Love Song' where Babas and Nyonyas exchanged poems in a humorous style, accompanied by a violin, accordion and traditional instruments; the Rebana and Gong. 

The Portuguese

Based on history,Portuguese has conquered Malacca in 1511 and ruled for 130 years. As Catholics, they celebrate festivals dedicated to their religion which can be witnessed throughout the year in their settlement the Portuguese Square. Usually, they speak a distinct language which is a Creole (fusion of two languages) based on Portuguese and Malay.The Portuguese community in Malacca are a merry bunch, often celebrating with loud dances, music and song. Their most famous tune is the 'Jinggling Nyonya', a happy dance-song routine. They've also brought their food; 'Curry Debel¡', which is their most famous food..
In June, the Portuguese Suare becomes abuzz with activity as the villagers celebrate a feast in honour of their patron saint. It is truly a sight for visitors to behold and a great chance to get to know this special 3,000-odd group of people in Malaysia.

source: http://lailengistravelling.blogspot.com/2009/09/melaka-peranakan-culture.html