MELAKA: A clear stand is needed on the Bandar Hilir car-free zone (CFZ) initiative amid conflicting positions that have raised questions over its implementation and impact on local residents and businesses.
MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said voters deserved to know whether the initiative had the support of their elected representative and whether the local community had been consulted before its implementation.
Dr Wee claimed that Bandar Hilir incumbent Leng Chau Yen of DAP had supported the initiative in the state assembly but appeared to take a different position when facing concerns from residents.
He said the apparent contradiction justified Barisan Nasional candidate Jasmine Lok’s challenge to Leng for a public debate over the initiative.
“The question is whether you support it or not. Have you discussed it with the local community?
“You once said the people were your bosses. Was the consultation process carried out?” he said when met during campaigning in Bandar Hilir on Saturday (Oct 31).
Dr Wee said the incumbent, who had previously been part of the Melaka state government, owed voters an explanation over his position on the initiative.
“People are confused, and I believe Jasmine’s challenge for a debate is justified,” he said.
Dr Wee also claimed that traffic disruptions arising from the CFZ initiative had contributed to businesses closing in the area.
He said addressing such issues was important to improving economic opportunities, particularly for young people who might otherwise seek employment elsewhere.
“Young people are facing challenges after graduating from university, including finding employment and coping with the high cost of living.
“Let young people bring the voices of their generation into the state assembly so their concerns can be heard,” he said.
Jasmine said Bandar Hilir’s position as a major tourism destination, including its Unesco heritage attractions, offered significant economic potential for young entrepreneurs.
“If we can resolve the traffic and parking issues, I am confident more young people will want to come here and start businesses.
“This is a tourism area with strong potential to generate income,” she said.
