A proposed 110-metre revolving tower being built in the tourist town of Malacca is to be relocated after the discovery of an 16th century fort at the site.

An ancient wall discovered at the building site is believed to be the remnants of a fort built by the Portuguese after they captured Malacca in 1511, the New Straits Times said.

Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister Rais Yatin said during a visit to the site that the ancient remains would be excavated, restored and turned into a tourist attraction.

"This is an historic finding, which will bring immense benefits to Malacca and the country," he told the daily.

The RM21 million Malacca Tower, which had been opposed by residents of the heritage town south of the capital Kuala Lumpur, will most likely have to be relocated, he said.

Rais is to make a report to the cabinet recommending the preservation of the site, which he called "a gem of an historical find".