Melaka: The Melaka government has committed RM5.8 million towards the enhancement of the Hang Tuah Centre Complex and the Hang Tuah Museum in Duyong, with the project set to span three years beginning in 2023. This initiative aims to rejuvenate the facilities and exhibition materials to boost tourism in the area.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Duyong Assemblyman Datuk Mohd Noor Helmy Abdul Halem, who also serves as the State Science, Technology, Innovation and Digital Communications Committee deputy chairman, revealed that RM2.5 million of the total budget is dedicated to enhancing exhibition materials through the incorporation of artificial intelligence at the museum. He underscored the importance of these upgrades in making the Hang Tuah Centre Complex a key tourist attraction.

The state is collaborating with the Melaka International College of Science and Technology (MiCoST) to create an online video game, Roblox, inspired by the Hang Tuah Village concept. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to engage younger audiences and introduce them to the region’s tourism offerings.

Mohd Noor Helmy outlined additional plans to revitalize the complex’s activities and programs, which include silat training and demonstrations conducted by local silat associations weekly. Other attractions will feature demonstrations of making ‘cakar ayam’ and organizing ‘sukan rakyat’ every Sunday.

In a separate development, a two-week ‘Duyong Wakil Rakyat Untuk Rakyat’ program, commencing on July 13, will include 166 planned activities. This initiative offers a free marriage course for first-time couples, capped at 100 participants, on July 19 and 20. Additionally, it will provide an early screening programme for special or disabled children.