Submarine Museum Melaka
Melaka
The Submarine Museum Melaka is a distinctive maritime museum located in Klebang, Melaka, Malaysia, built inside a decommissioned French Agosta-class submarine named Quessant (S623). This 67.5-meter-long submarine served as a training vessel for the Royal Malaysian Navy crews between 2005 and 2009. It was transported from France to Malaysia in 2011 and opened to the public later that year. The museum offers visitors an immersive experience inside a real submarine, highlighting Malaysia's naval history and technological advancements. It features the original submarine interiors, giving insight into the life of submariners. The museum also underwent upgrades to include visitor facilities such as a prayer room and shops. It stands out as an educational and historical attraction, combining military history with an engaging, tangible experience. The museum is a symbol of Malaysia's maritime defense progress and international cooperation.
Plan your trip to Malaysia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit the museum during the daytime for the best experience, as it is an outdoor exhibit accessible during daylight hours. It is advisable to check opening hours in advance and consider purchasing tickets early if available, especially during weekends and holidays when visitor numbers are higher. The museum includes basic visitor facilities and has been upgraded with amenities such as a prayer room and souvenir shops. Visitors should be prepared for narrow and confined spaces inside the submarine, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia.
Interesting facts
- •The submarine measures 67.5 meters in length, 11.7 meters in height, and 6.5 meters in width, with a displacement of 1,300 tonnes.
- •It was used to train the first Royal Malaysian Navy submarine crews between 2005 and 2009.
- •The submarine was transported from France to Malaysia by sea, departing from Brest on 9 October 2011 and arriving in Melaka on 17 November 2011.
- •On its opening preview in 2011, the museum attracted 25,000 visitors within 10 days.
- •The museum cost approximately MYR12.6 million, covering transportation, renovation, foundation, and visitor facilities.
History
The submarine Quessant (S623) was originally a French Agosta-class submarine used by the French Navy and later by the Royal Malaysian Navy for training from 2005 until its decommissioning in 2009.
Ownership was officially transferred from France to Malaysia in 2011.
The submarine was transported by sea from Brest, France, arriving in Melaka in November 2011.
The museum opened shortly thereafter as a public exhibit.
In 2012, the submarine was officially handed over to the Malacca State Government, marking its new role as a museum.
Subsequent upgrades have been made to enhance visitor experience and facilities.
Place Guide
Control Room1970s
The nerve center of the submarine, where crew members operated navigation and weapon systems. Visitors can see original control panels and instruments used during its operational period.
Crew Quarters1970s
Living spaces where the submarine crew rested and carried out daily activities during missions. The cramped quarters reflect the challenging conditions submariners faced.
Torpedo Room1970s
Area where torpedoes were stored and launched. Visitors can view the torpedo tubes and learn about the submarine's offensive capabilities.
Museum Entrance and Visitor Facilities2015
Includes ticketing area, souvenir shops, and a prayer room added during the 2015 upgrade to enhance visitor comfort.
Contact
Phone: 06-282 6526
