Malacca’s story to go Global on TV

The country’s renowned historical state, Malacca, will have its presence felt all over the world soon.

The filming of the documentary, Malacca, which started on Sept 12, will showcase the state’s history through the Portuguese, Dutch and British occupations, its people, its tourism and food, and its fascinating culture.

The documentary, a collaboration between China’s television network CCTV and local production house VL Film Productions is the third co-production between the two countries.

According to VL Film Production chief executive officer Datuk Vincent Lye, the idea behind the filming of the documentary came about after CCTV’s president Zhao Huayong visited Malacca in May this year.

“The sole purpose for the visit was merely for leisure but the Zhao ended up meeting Malacca Governor Tun Mohd Khalil Yaakob and was impressed by him.

Closer ties: Zhao (left) and Tun Mohd Khalil exchanging souvenirs during Zhao's visit to Malacca in May this year. With them is Lye.

“Subsequently, he offered to film a documentary on Malacca as a gift to the state as well as a token of appreciation for their friendship,” said Lye yesterday.

The four 30-minutes episodes in Mandarin will showcase Malacca from the year 1511 to present.

The first episode talks about the strategic location of the state and its role as a hub for international traders, while the second episode features the history and establishment of the Malacca Sultanate and the state’s relationship with China.

The third episode highlights the colonisation of the city and today's modern Malacca.

The final episode talks about the people, the food and their cultures.

“It focuses on the unique cultural diversity and architecture of the state as well as a highlight on its Baba Nyonya people.

“There will also be a special segment on politician and MCA founder Tun Tan Cheng Lock,” said Lye, who is also the adviser of the project.

The documentary, sponsored by the Malacca state government, Tourism Ministry and VL Film Productions, is expected to go on air by early next year on CCTV4, CCTV9, and on Spanish, French and European channels.

Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel vmy2007]