By ALICIA YEOH and MICHELLE LIM | Jan 26, 2010
Bright Malacca facade 2,200 houses being painted in World Heritage Site
malacca@thestar.com.my
MALACCA: Some 2,200 houses in the heart of the historic city will look bright and cheerful this Chinese New Year once authorities complete a RM2mil repainting project.
Work on painting the façades of the 18th-century homes and pre-war shophouses is ongoing with the project scheduled for completion a week before the start of festivities.
Irene Chua, 40, a resident of an 18th-century Dutch-era home in Heeren Street said she was happy to get the free paint job as it would certainly brighten the street during the festive season next month.
“I am impressed by the state’s effort. The fresh coat of paint will bring positive vibes to the heart of the old city,” she said.
Chua, who runs a family business selling Nyonya beaded shoes, chinchalok and traditional cookies, hoped the state would carry out more community projects to benefit those in the heritage zone.
Jonker Walk Committee deputy chairman Datuk Gan Tian Loo said the homes being painted were in the World Heritage Site core zone.
The job would be completed a week before Chinese New Year, he added.
“We are fortunate to have received RM400,000 from the Tourism Ministry, and RM1.4mil is coming from the Federal Government’s special allocation for Malacca,” he said.
Among the streets being painted are Jalan Bandar Kaba, Jalan Hang Lekir, Jalan Hang Lekiu and Jalan Tokong.
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