If you’ve ever wondered what life is like beneath the waves — not as a diver, but as a marine soldier living inside a real submarine — the Melaka Submarine Museum offers an experience unlike any other in Malaysia. Located in Klebang, just a short 14-minute drive from Melaka’s historic city centre, this one-of-a-kind museum invites visitors to step inside a fully preserved military submarine and explore its narrow passageways, crew quarters, and hidden compartments.
This unusual attraction is built around the Agosta 70-class submarine, a French-built vessel constructed in 1978. It once served as a training submarine for the Royal Malaysian Navy between 2005 and 2009, housing up to 54 crew members at a time. Today, it stands proudly on metal stilts — a massive silhouette against the sky — and remains the only submarine museum in Malaysia.
The highlight of the visit is the chance to actually board the submarine. Once inside, you’re immediately transported into the confined world of underwater defence. Visitors can walk through its narrow corridors, peek into cramped sleeping quarters, and imagine what daily life would have been like for soldiers spending days — or weeks — beneath the sea. Every inch of the submarine tells a story: the original machinery, tight bunks, operational stations, and heavily compact layout showcase the discipline and teamwork required to live in such a small space.
Before entering, you can also explore the exterior exhibits, including the submarine’s original equipment used during its training days. The museum grounds feature more than just the submarine itself. Families can enjoy a bit of extra fun with horse riding activities, and aviation enthusiasts may appreciate the fighter jets displayed opposite the submarine — adding to the museum’s military-themed experience.
The Melaka Submarine Museum is open daily, with slightly extended hours on weekends and public holidays:
Opening Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Fri–Sun: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Ticket Prices:
Malaysian Adult: RM10
- Malaysian Child: RM5
- Foreigner Adult: RM20
- Foreigner Child: RM10
- Children below 6 years: Free
(Prices may change — check the official website for updates.)
Whether you’re a military history enthusiast, a family travelling with kids, or simply looking for a unique adventure beyond Melaka’s iconic heritage sites, the Submarine Museum offers a fascinating and memorable experience. It’s not every day you get to explore the inside of a real submarine — so don’t miss this rare chance to dive into the unseen world beneath the ocean’s surface.
