Investor wants to build a theme park with military concept in Melaka, says Ab Rauf

MELAKA: The state has received a first-of-its-kind proposal to build a theme park with a military concept, says Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh (pic).

The Melaka investment, industry, entrepreneur development and cooperatives committee chairman said the proposal was made by an investor from Hong Kong.

He said the concept was intriguing, with used military vehicles to be part of the attractions, including an army museum.

"The investor has expressed interest to build the theme park at the Klebang waterfront at a cost of RM200mil.

"It looks like a very interesting plan and would add value for the local tourism industry as well as directly benefiting the state's economy," he said after an event organised by Melaka River and Beach Development Corporation (PPSPM) at a hotel here on Thursday (Dec 22).

Ab Rauf said the state government would need to consider the proposal thoroughly with evaluations made by relevant departments.

"I hope this theme park materialises and it will be a pioneer concept in this region," he added.

Meanwhile, PPSPM chief executive officer Datuk Murad Husin said the second phase of the River Cruise that connects the Taman Rempah jetty to Batu Hampar waterway is expected to be operational soon.

He said the second phase would be more of a recreational package as part of the development of new tourism activities at Sungai Melaka.

"We will also introduce a 'Love Boat' cruise for couples with a candlelight dinner and music," he said.

Murad said PPSPM would also unveil the RM8mil Sigua Park along Sungai Melaka by upgrading the Pirate Park, which has been closed for more than three years.

"Sigua Park, which is synonymous with monitor lizards that are abundant along Sungai Melaka, is expected to be in operation by next year," he said.

Murad also revealed that PPSPM is aiming for 750,000 cruise passengers by the end of this year and is optimistic that it can achieve that target based on the 700,000 passengers recorded from Jan 1 to Dec 19 this year.