MELAKA: The willingness and aspiration of the Federation of Hokkien Associations of Malaysia to become an ambassador for the development of the state has been warmly welcomed by Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
The Melaka Chief Minister said the Federation's commitment, helmed by Tan Sri Dr Lim Hock San to attract foreign investors to Melaka is highly appreciated as it will open up more economic opportunities in the state.
"I am very grateful to Tan Sri (Lim) for expressing his willingness to act as an investment ambassador for the state by bringing in investors from China, particularly from the Fujian province, which has long-established ties with us.
"I see that the relationship among the Chinese community through this Hokkien Association has fostered connections not only in the social sphere but also in economic and trade relations, which can be expanded with foreign countries," he said on Wednesday (Feb 19).
Earlier, Ab Rauf attended a Chinese New Year 2025 Luncheon gathering with the leaders of the Federation and the Melaka Hokkien Association at a hotel in Ayer Keroh here.
Also present were Datuk Lim Ban Hong, the Special Adviser on Investment and China Affairs to the Chief Minister of Melaka, along with other state dignitaries.
The Chief Minister also noted that the Federation has remained strong since 1957 and represents the Hokkien community, which makes up 50% of the seven million Chinese in the country.
Ab Rauf also pledged that under his leadership, he is determined to make Melaka a model state in the country that upholds the principles of unity and harmony.
He also said the initiative had been proven as the state government, comprising a combination of several political parties, had successfully launched numerous economic opportunities, instilling confidence in investors to establish their presence in the state.
