MELAKA: The battle over Bandar Hilir’s contentious car-free zone has taken another turn, with Pakatan Harapan pledging to review the initiative as the issue becomes a campaign flashpoint ahead of the Nov 14 Melaka state election.
Melaka Pakatan chairman Datuk Seri Adly Zahari said the coalition recognised that the initiative had divided opinion, with some wanting it retained while others complained that it had affected their livelihoods.
He said alternative approaches could be considered to ensure that the initiative benefited all parties.
“We know there are several challenges involving the car-free zone. That is why Pakatan Harapan has decided that there must be a review.
ALSO READ: Zoning issue sparks election clash
“Some feel it should be maintained, but others believe there are constraints that have affected their income.
“There are also those who feel that other approaches could be adopted so that everyone can benefit from the system,” he told a press conference here on Monday (Nov 2).
Adly said Pakatan would take into account the views of those directly affected before deciding on the initiative’s future.
He stopped short of committing to either retaining or abolishing the initiative.
Introduced in August 2023, the car-free zone involves the closure of several roads around Bandar Hilir from 6pm on Fridays until midnight on Sundays.
ALSO READ: Stick to key issues, says BN’s Jasmine
The initiative, aimed at creating a pedestrian-friendly environment in the historic city’s tourism hub, has drawn mixed reactions from businesses and residents.
Some traders have complained about traffic disruptions and reduced accessibility, while others believe the initiative helps attract visitors to the area.
The issue has emerged as a major talking point in the Bandar Hilir contest.
