The Muzium Kapal Selam (Submarine Museum) in Melaka, Malaysia is a unique maritime attraction located near the popular Pantai Klebang (Klebang Beach). This museum offers visitors the rare opportunity to explore the interior of a real submarine and learn about Malaysia’s naval history.
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Muzium Kapal Selam – Melacca Submarine Museum
Unnamed Road, Klebang
75200, Malacca
+60 6 282 6526
Tuesday – Sunday: 09:00 – 17:00
Monday: Closed
Aircraft collection
| M32-14 M29-01 | Douglas A-4PTM Skyhawk Northrop F-5E Tiger |
Background of the Submarine
The submarine on display is the Agosta 70-class submarine, named FS Ouessant (S623). It was originally a French-built vessel used by the French Navy before being acquired by the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) in 2005 for training purposes. The submarine played a key role in training Malaysian submariners as part of the country’s efforts to establish its own submarine fleet.
- Type: Agosta 70-class diesel-electric submarine
- Length: Approximately 67 meters
- Weight: Around 1,500 tons (surfaced) / 1,760 tons (submerged)
- Built: In the late 1970s in France
The FS Ouessant was officially decommissioned in 2009, and in 2011, it was brought to Melaka and transformed into a museum to promote maritime education and showcase Malaysia’s naval capabilities.
Features of the Submarine Museum
The Muzium Kapal Selam offers a fascinating experience, especially for visitors interested in military history and maritime technology. Some key highlights include:
- Exploring the Submarine Interior:
- Visitors can walk through the actual compartments of the submarine, including the control room, officers’ quarters, torpedo room, and engine room.
- The narrow passageways, control panels, and equipment provide an authentic glimpse into the life of submariners and the challenges of operating a submarine.
- Exhibits and Displays:
- Information panels and displays are set up inside the submarine, detailing its specifications, history, and the significance of the FS Ouessant in Malaysia’s naval development.
- Artifacts such as uniforms, models, and historical photographs illustrate the story of the Royal Malaysian Navy’s submarine program.
- Educational Activities:
- The museum aims to inspire interest in maritime technology among students and young visitors by showcasing the complexity of submarine operations.
- Guided tours are available, allowing visitors to learn more about the submarine’s technical features and Malaysia’s maritime defense strategy.
Significance of the Museum
The Muzium Kapal Selam not only serves as a tourist attraction but also plays an important role in preserving Malaysia’s naval heritage. By allowing visitors to explore the submarine, the museum helps to increase public awareness of the nation’s maritime defense efforts and the technological advancements of the Royal Malaysian Navy.
The museum is particularly popular among families and school groups, offering a hands-on, educational experience that’s both fun and informative.