Charms of Jasin – Heritage & Gastronomy Experience

Discovering the Heart of Melaka’s Countryside

Beyond the bustling streets of Melaka City lies Jasin, a peaceful district brimming with heritage charm, rural beauty, and culinary delights. Through the Charms of Jasin – Heritage & Gastronomy Experience familiarisation trip organised by Tourism Malaysia in collaboration with Tourism Melaka, Gaya Travel Magazine team, including fellow traveling companions comprising influencers and representatives from other media titles, set off on a four-day journey to uncover the stories, flavours, and warmth that make Jasin one of the state’s most underrated treasures.

From eco-cruises and homestay experiences to traditional crafts and durian orchards, this trip was a heartfelt exploration of community, culture, and creativity. Here’s a glimpse into what made every moment in Jasin truly unforgettable.

Day 1 – Exploring the Calm and Culture of Kampung Chinchin, Jasin

Eco Cruise Tasik Chinchin

Our journey into Jasin began at Eco Cruise Tasik Chinchin, a peaceful escape tucked away in Kampung Chinchin. Managed by Perbadanan Pembangunan Sungai dan Pantai Melaka (PPSPM), this 100-hectare lake offers a quiet retreat where travellers can experience Melaka’s natural beauty from a whole new perspective. As the boat glided across the still water, surrounded by lush greenery and birdsong, it felt like time slowed down. The fresh breeze, the reflection of trees dancing on the lake, and the soft ripples beneath the boat, made this the perfect introduction to Jasin’s tranquil countryside charm.

Café Markisa

Right beside the lake in Kampung Chinchin sits Café Markisa, a charming spot where good food meets a stunning view. After the refreshing cruise, we stopped here for lunch and were instantly greeted by the cosy lakeside ambience and the aroma of freshly baked wood-fired pizza. The café offers a fusion of local and Western dishes from ikan patin masak tempoyak (catfish cooked in fermented durian gravy) and asampedas tetel (beef trimmings cooked in spicy sour dish) to rich pastries and cakes. Each bite reflects Melaka’s diverse flavours, crafted with love and served with a view that could calm any restless soul. Dining here felt like a pause from the rush of travel: simple, delicious, and unforgettable.

Villa Taman Ekstrem Tasik Chinchin

After lunch, we checked in at Villa Taman Ekstrem Tasik Chinchin (CMI), our accommodation for the night. Nestled within the same scenic area, this villa combines rustic countryside charm with comfort and fun. It features a mini water park, perfect for families and groups, and offers a relaxing environment surrounded by lush greenery. The atmosphere is cheerful yet peaceful, the kind of place where travellers can unwind after a long day, share stories, and enjoy the sound of nature before another exciting day ahead.

Homestay Warisan Kampung Chinchin

As evening approached, we visited Homestay Warisan Kampung Chinchin, where the real heart of the community comes alive. The villagers welcomed us with open arms, proudly sharing their local traditions and way of life. We tried archery, took mini-ATV rides, and visited the community’s chilli and pineapple farms. The locals produce and sell their own cili boh and have even introduced creative recipes using pineapples such as asam pedas tetel nanas (beef trimmings cooked in spicy sour dish with pineapple), pineapple fritters, and refreshing pineapple juice. Their warmth, creativity, and hospitality made this visit truly special. As the sun set over the fields, laughter filled the air, a perfect ending to our first day in Jasin.

Day 2 – Island Adventures and Cultural Connections in Merlimau

Island Hopping at Jeti Umbai, Anjung Batu

The morning began with sunshine, sea breeze, and pure excitement as we made our way to JetiUmbai, Anjung Batu for an island-hopping adventure. After a short safety briefing by Cempaka Boat Services (tel: +601113076610), we boarded the boat and set sail across Melaka’s calm blue waters. The journey took us to four beautiful islands — Pulau Besar, Pulau Undan, Pulau Dodol, and Pulau Nangka — each carrying its own unique charm and history. Pulau Besar is steeped in mystical legends, Pulau Undan stands out with its iconic lighthouse, and Pulau Nangka whispers tales from the past. As the waves sparkled under the morning sun, everyone on board couldn’t stop smiling; it was the perfect start to our second day in Jasin and Merlimau.

Lunch at Restoran Norita Asam Pedas, Kampung Pulai Barat

After the sea adventure, it was time for a taste of Melaka’s most iconic dish asam pedas (spicy sour gravy)! We stopped by Restoran Norita Asam Pedas, located right by the fishermen’s jetty in Kampung Pulai Barat. The restaurant greeted us with the comforting aroma of freshly cooked seafood simmering in spicy, tangy gravy. Their signature dishes include ikan pari (stingray), sotong (squid), udang (prawn), and even belangkas (horseshoe crab), all cooked using recipes passed down through generations. Every bite was rich, fiery, and unforgettable, a true representation of Melaka’s coastal culinary identity. Lunch here felt like dining at a local’s home, where every dish tells a story of heritage and heart.

Homestay Kampung Pulai, Merlimau

In the afternoon, we arrived at Homestay Kampung Pulai, where warmth and community take centre stage. This homestay follows the “mak ayah angkat” (foster parents) concept, allowing guests to experience genuine kampung life by staying with host families. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with smiles, laughter, and heartfelt hospitality. The villagers proudly showcased their cultural heritage from demonstrations of dodol (a sweet, sticky, caramel-like confection made primarily from coconut milk, palm sugar, and glutinous rice flour) and wajik (a traditional sweet, sticky rice cake) making to traditional kompang and keris crafting. Every activity reflects the community’s deep pride in preserving their Bugis-Melaka roots. Spending time here reminded us that travel isn’t just about seeing places, but it isalso about feeling connected to the people who bring them to life.

Pizza Pendekar Tokmau & Jue Kitchen

As the sun began to set, we stopped at Pizza PendekarTokmau& Jue Kitchen, a welcoming café located near the historic Makam Tun Teja (Tun Teja’s mausoleum). The café’s name may sound playful, but the food is seriously impressive! Their wood-fired pizza, baked in a traditional stone oven, delivered the perfect balance of crispiness and smoky flavour. Surrounded by greenery and the soft sounds of kampung life, it was the ideal spot to relax, unwind, and share stories from the day over a slice (or two!) of pizza and a cup of tea.

Cultural Night with the Community

The evening concluded with a Cultural Night at Homestay Kampung Pulai, a vibrant celebration of local music, dance, and friendship. Dressed in traditional attire, participants and locals came together under the night sky for an evening filled with rhythm, colour, and joy. There were traditional performances, lively drumming, and spontaneous dancing that soon had everyone joining in. It wasn’t just a show; it was a heartfelt celebration of culture and unity that truly captured the spirit of Merlimau.

Day 3 – Heritage, Flavours, and Countryside Charm

Kedai Mamamidah, Umbai

The morning began in Umbai, where we made a quick but delightful stop at Kedai Mamamidah (Hamidah Food Industry) a local shop that embodies the entrepreneurial spirit of Melaka’s small communities. The air is filled with the tempting aroma of kerepek pisang (banana crisps), dodol, and other traditional snacks made by the hands of local artisans. Shelves were lined with neatly packed belacan (fermented shrimp paste), cencaluk (a traditional Melaka fermented shrimp condiment), rempeyek (deep-fried savoury cracker made from a thin, crispy flour batter coated with ingredients like peanuts, dried anchovies, or shrimp), and other homemade treats that tell the story of Melaka’s food heritage. This isn’t just a shopping stop; it is a glimpse into how local families sustain their traditions while supporting the community economy.

Galeri Demang Abdul Ghani, Merlimau

Next, we headed to Galeri Demang Abdul Ghani, a masterpiece of traditional Malay architecture built in 1894. Also known as Rumah Penghulu Abdul Ghani, this historical home-turned-gallery stands proudly in Merlimau, showcasing intricate wood carvings and unique designs influenced by Palembang, Champa, and Chinese culture. As we stepped inside, the scent of old timber and the golden light filtering through carved windows transported us to another time. Our guide shared fascinating stories about Demang Abdul Ghani’s role as a local leader and the importance of this house as a symbol of wisdom and unity in the community. It was a moving reminder that heritage isn’t just preserved in buildings: it lives in the stories they hold.

Restoran KAS Beriani, Merlimau

By midday, our appetites led us to Restoran KAS Beriani, where the comforting aroma of spiced rice and slow-cooked meat greeted us at the door. Known for its flavourful nasi beriani, the restaurant served up generous portions of ayam, sotong, kambing, and ikan beriani, each dish rich with spices and cooked to perfection. The warm hospitality of the staff and the homely setting made this lunch even more satisfying. Over good food and laughter, it felt like sharing a meal among friends, a simple yet perfect moment that added to the heart of the journey.

Villa Duta Riang, Selandar

After lunch and Friday prayers, we travelled to Villa Duta Riang in Selandar, one of Melaka’s newest agro-tourism attractions. Tucked within a sprawling durian orchard, this villa offered a serene escape from the city’s buzz. We were welcomed by lush greenery, the earthy scent of fruit trees, and the cheerful energy of the hosts. Guests can stay in beautifully named villas such as Villa Riang Ria, Villa Riang Damai, and Villa Riang Indah, each offering homely comfort surrounded by nature. The highlight of our visit was the thrilling ATV ride through the orchard, an exhilarating way to explore the scenic landscape while enjoying the fresh countryside air.

As evening fell, we gathered at the villa’s multipurpose hall for the closing ceremony of the Charms of Jasin programme. The atmosphere was warm and filled with gratitude, echoes of laughter, celebratingfriendships, and reflections on the meaningful experiences shared over the past few days. Surrounded by the scent of durian trees and the sounds of the night, the event was the perfect ending to an inspiring journey through Jasin and Merlimau’s culture, cuisine, and community.

Day 4 – A Sweet Farewell at Eco Do Bem Café & Durian Park, Bemban

The final morning of our journey brought a mix of excitement and bittersweet emotions. After breakfast, we headed to Eco Do Bem Café & Durian Park in Bemban a hidden paradise for durian lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Surrounded by rolling hills and vibrant greenery, the park offers visitors the chance to explore a working durian orchard while enjoying freshly harvested fruits. When we arrived, the air was filled with the rich aroma from the various types of durians, for exampleMusang King, D24, IOI, and durian kampung, each one representing the pride of Melaka’s agricultural heritage.

At the café, we indulged in more than just the king of fruits. The menu features local comfort food and desserts, best enjoyed with a cup of coffee overlooking the orchard. For some of us, it was our first time tasting durian straight from the tree – the reactions were priceless, ranging from love at first bite to playful hesitation! But beyond the laughter, the experience reflected the true spirit of this trip: discovery, joy, and shared connection.

As we sat together enjoying the view, a sense of peace washed over us. The gentle rustling of leaves, the distant hum of village life, and the easy conversations among friends created a perfect ending to four unforgettable days in Jasin and Merlimau. This wasn’t just a journey through destinations; it was a journey through heartwarming moments, local pride, and the enduring charm of Melaka’s countryside.

With smiles and gratitude, we bid farewell to Jasin, carrying home not just memories, but a renewed appreciation for Malaysia’s living heritage where every taste, tradition, and friendly face tells a story worth celebrating.

Gaya Travel Magazine team members express our heartfelt gratitude to Tourism Malaysia for making the writer’s trip possible and smooth-sailing. For more information on Melaka and other Malaysian destinations, visit https://www.malaysia.travel/.

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Muhammad Qaiyyum Bin Azian

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