Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

Malaysia's oldest still-operating Chinese temple, constructed in 1673, remains a central place of worship for the Buddhist community in Melaka City. The temple is dedicated to Kuan Yin, Goddess of Mercy. A black, gold and red-robed statue of the goddess stands in the central prayer hall. Cheng Hoon Teng temple was established by Chan Lak Koa, who was son-in-law of Captain Li, Malacca’s second Chinese kapitan.

The main prayer hall of Cheng Hoon Teng Temple has a weighty saddled roof, domineering dark timber beams and beautiful carved woodwork. Smaller chambers of this temple devoted to ancestor. Worship are important throughout the temple: these rooms are filled with tablets bearing photographs of the deceased.