Cape Rachado Lighthouse in the 2020s

Photo taken on 12 April 2025

Standing on the rocky headland of Tanjung Tuan in the state of Melaka, Malaysia, overlooking the strategic waters of the Strait of Malacca, the Cape Rachado Lighthouse—locally known as Rumah Api Tanjung Tuan—is one of the oldest functioning lighthouses in the country and an enduring maritime landmark closely associated with the Port Dickson coastline.

Location and Coordinates

Name of Place: Tanjung Tuan, Melaka, Malaysia
Latitude: 2° 24.40′ N
Longitude: 101° 51.20′ E

Located within the Alor Gajah District of Melaka, the lighthouse stands on elevated ground inside the Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve. Although administratively part of Melaka, Cape Rachado has always been closely linked to the maritime identity of Port Dickson due to its geographic position and historical role along the Negeri Sembilan coastline and the wider Malacca Strait.

Lighthouse Specifications

Light Characteristic: Fl (3) 15 Seconds
Visible Range: 23 Nautical Miles
Height of Light (Focal Height): 118 meters above mean high water
Height of Building: 24 meters

The lighthouse emits three white flashes every 15 seconds, producing a powerful beacon that remains clearly visible far out at sea. Its elevated focal height allows the light to reach vessels approaching the coast from great distances, making it a vital navigational reference for passing ships.

History and Background

Year Commissioned: 1863

The present lighthouse structure was commissioned in 1863 during the British colonial period. The site itself, however, has been associated with maritime navigation since the 16th century, when Portuguese explorers first charted this headland and named it Cape Rachado, meaning “Broken Cape”.

Over the centuries, the headland passed through Portuguese, Dutch, and British control, reflecting the long-standing strategic importance of the Malacca Strait. Despite advances in navigation technology, the lighthouse has remained operational, continuing to serve modern shipping while preserving its historical character.

Also Known As

Rumah Api Tanjung Tuan
Cape Rachado Lighthouse

Today, Cape Rachado Lighthouse stands not only as an essential navigational aid but also as a symbol of the region’s maritime heritage. Surrounded by protected forest and seasonal migratory bird routes, it represents a unique meeting point of history, geography, and seafaring tradition in the Port Dickson area.