MELAKA: Kota Laksamana could be developed into the state’s new capital if Barisan Nasional wins the seat in the Nov 14 polls, says caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh (pic).
He said the proposed transformation would be supported by the Straits of Melaka Waterfront Economic Zone, which would bring together tourism, commercial and industrial activities along the state’s waterfront.
“Kota Laksamana will become the state capital of Melaka. That is what I hope for,” he said during a visit to the Kota Laksamana Barisan war room.
The proposed development would mostly involve private concessionaires undertaking projects through private finance initiatives, with the state government responsible for coordinating their implementation, providing facilities and easing bureaucratic processes, he said.
Among the developments he highlighted were the Oriental Melaka Straits Medical Centre, new shopping facilities at Tarcor Park and plans to expand the area’s tourism and commercial activities.
On the election, Ab Rauf said Barisan was targeting between 25 and 26 seats in the 28-seat state assembly, following what he described as the allocation of two additional seats to the coalition.
He called on the Umno machinery to work alongside MCA members to secure a victory for Melvin Chua, Barisan’s candidate for Kota Laksamana.
“We share the same objectives, let’s work together to ensure our candidates are elected,” he said.
MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, who was also present, expressed confidence in Chua’s ability to serve the constituency, citing his experience as a three-term city councillor and his work at grassroots level.
He described Chua as hardworking and committed, adding that he was well regarded by people of different races.
Dr Wee said Chua had prepared a set of 100-day pledges for the constituency, which he described as commitments to be fulfilled rather than empty promises.
“Kota Laksamana may be a challenging seat for Barisan, but Chua is determined to give his best and we are behind him,” he said.
Dr Wee also commended Ab Rauf’s administration, highlighting its tourism development, investment initiatives and assistance programmes for residents.
“Melaka’s tourism growth is not solely due to its historical attractions but also the state government’s efforts to develop the sector and ensure its economic benefits reached the people,” he said.
At another event, Ab Rauf, who is state Barisan chief, said Muafakat Melaka, the state-level pact between Barisan and Perikatan Nasional, will move towards a Muafakat Malaysia.
He called on the Umno, MCA and MIC machinery to work with Perikatan to take Kesidang from Pakatan Harapan.
“I have told all Umno machinery and the Barisan machinery, including MCA and MIC, to move together with Perikatan so that N19 goes back to Muafakat Melaka on Nov 14,” he said when visiting Perikatan’s operations centre in Kesidang yesterday.
