Poh Onn Kong Temple 保安宮, Malacca
Poh Onn Kong Temple (GPS: 2.20042, 102.25177) is a historic Chinese temple located at No. 152, Jalan Bunga Raya Pantai, Malacca. With roots dating back to the late 18th century, it remains a vital center of worship for the local Chinese community, particularly those of Zhangzhou heritage1.
History
The temple was likely established between 1770 and 1781 by the father of Seow Kian Huat, who brought the sacred incense of the Tang-dynasty monk San Ping Zushi (三坪祖師) from Zhangzhou, China1. Over the centuries, it underwent numerous renovations in years such as 1811, 1841, 1856, 1862, 1866, 1902, 1916, and 19252. In the 1990s, the main hall roof collapsed, leading to a complete reconstruction completed in 19982.
Architecture
Poh Onn Kong Temple is built in the Minnan (southern Fujian) style, facing east–west3. The front gate’s main beam is carved with two dragons playing with a pearl, a hallmark of Fujianese craftsmanship3. The roof features “cut-and-paste” porcelain mosaics and red clay tiles, while the main hall boasts carved wooden beams, lanterns, and inscribed plaques that record the history of Malacca’s Chinese community3.
Main Deities
The principal deity is San Ping Cho-su Kong (三坪祖師), a deified Tang-dynasty monk1. Other deities include Mazu (天上聖母, sea goddess) and Zhongtan Yuanshuai (中壇元帥, Marshal Nezha)1. The temple reflects a syncretic Taoist-Buddhist tradition, typical of Malacca’s Chinese places of worship4.
Visiting Information
The temple is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, closing slightly earlier on Mondays5. Admission is free, and visitors should dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the main hall.
Festivals
The most important celebration is the birthday of San Ping Zushi on the 6th day of the 6th lunar month, marked by prayers, processions, and a blood donation drive6. Another local tradition is the 乞龟法会 (“beg-for-turtles” ceremony) in the 11th lunar month, involving charitable rice distributions6. The temple also observes other deity birthdays with incense offerings and lantern lighting.
Quick Facts
- Name: Poh Onn Kong Temple (保安宮)
- Location: No. 152, Jalan Bunga Raya Pantai, 75100 Malacca
- Founded: Late 18th century (circa 1770–1781)
- Main Deity: San Ping Zushi (三坪祖師)
- Other Deities: Mazu, Zhongtan Yuanshuai, others
- Architecture: Southern Fujian (Minnan) style with carved dragons and porcelain mosaic roof
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily (closes earlier Mondays)
- Admission: Free
- Main Festival: Birthday of San Ping Zushi (6th day, 6th lunar month)
- Special Traditions: Beg-for-turtles ceremony, charity rice distribution
References
- Sin Chew Daily – Historical background of Poh Onn Kong Temple
- Malaysia Traveller – Malacca Temples Guide
- The Star – Architectural features of Poh Onn Kong Temple
- Malacca Guide – Religious traditions
- Google Maps – Opening hours and visitor information
- Oriental Daily – Festivals and celebrations at Poh Onn Kong Temple
Poh Onn Kong Temple is 
on the Map of Jalan Bunga Raya Pantai, Malacca
Poh Onn Kong Temple, Malacca (9 August 2017)
Poh Onn Kong Temple, Malacca (9 August 2017)
Poh Onn Kong Temple, Malacca (9 August 2017)
Page Details
This page was created on 10 August 2025.Want to share your Malacca travel experiences or get tips from fellow travellers?
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