MELAKA: A cultural centre is in the works to highlight the traditions and heritage of the Melaka Portuguese. Two representatives from the Portugal government are on a long research stint at the Portuguese Settlement here to work towards debuting the centre, said Save the Portuguese Community action committee chairman Martin Theseira. “Once it’s ready, the centre will not only cover those in Melaka but also the needs of our counterparts in nearby countries,” he said. Theseira noted that one of the most interesting facets of the culture is the local Portuguese Creole language. Many Bahasa Malaysia words were borrowed from the local Portuguese Creole language, he said, citing as examples kereta (car), almari (cupboard), hilir (edge) and meja (table).

Source: The Star May 28, 2019 00:00 UTC