December 23, 2025
MELAKA – Every December, the Portuguese Settlement, nestled along the coast of Ujong Pasir in Melaka, is filled with Christmas spirit.
This year, residents have once again poured their hearts into decorating their homes and public spaces, dressing Malaysia’s only Portuguese Settlement in its finest festive attire.
A giant Christmas tree stands in the center of the square in Portuguese Settlement. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY
At the heart of the settlement square stands a magnificently decorated Christmas tree, adorned with colorful ornaments that cast a warm, dreamlike glow.
Nearby, figures of Santa Claus, reindeer-drawn sleighs, and a large, pristine statue of Jesus Christ stand out under the illumination, transporting visitors to a world away and immersing them in a deep festive spirit.
The Portuguese Square is dressed for Christmas, welcoming visitors. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY
Wandering through the settlement lanes, one encounters vibrant Christmas lights, handmade wreaths, Santas, sleighs, reindeer, and various traditional displays at every turn.
Residents set up Nativity scenes, Santa Claus figures, or star installations in their yards or on rooftops.
One of the houses with Christmas decorations in the Portuguese Settlement. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY
As dusk falls and the lights flicker on, the entire village seems gently enveloped in a tender festive radiance—quiet, cozy, and heartwarming.
This authentic and festive atmosphere makes the settlement an unmissable “check-in” spot year after year, drawing visitors back time and again.
The simple exterior of traditional Portuguese houses becomes even more precious when adorned with Christmas lights. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY
Visitors stroll along the twinkling paths, slowing their pace to experience the area turned into a Christmas wonderland which is different from Christmas decorations found in shopping malls.
Despite the constant flow of guests, residents remain friendly and hospitable, ensuring that visitors feel the genuine human touch behind the festivities.
The light-up decorations of Santa Claus and reindeer on the rooftops. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY
The Portuguese Settlement Village Development and Security Committee posted on its Facebook the message:
“As we draw closer to Christmas, our hearts begin to prepare for the joy, peace, and love that the season brings.
Residents of the Portuguese Settlement decorate their homes. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY
May this Nativity scene remind us to slow down, reflect, and come together as one community in the spirit of hope and togetherness.
Wishing everyone a meaningful and joy-filled lead-up to Christmas.
Santa Claus leads the youth in spreading joy through Christmas caroling in the Portuguese Settlement. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY
The Settlement was established nearly 100 years ago to preserve the heritage of the Kristang people—a Malaysian ethnic group with mixed Portuguese and Malay heritage originating from the time of the Portuguese rule in Melaka.
The settlement of 118 homes is considered the cradle of Christmas celebration with predominantly 1,200 Catholics.
Every yearend, the settlement is packed with visitors, local and foreign to visit the area which turns into a sparkling Christmas wonderland after dark.
The settlement of 118 homes is considered the cradle of Christmas celebration with predominantly 1,200 Catholics. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY