MELAKA: Kota Laksamana could become Melaka’s new state capital under plans to develop a new economic corridor if Barisan Nasional wins the seat in the Melaka election.
Melaka BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ab Rauf Yusoh said the proposal was part of the state government’s plans to transform the area’s development and economic landscape over the next five years.
He said Kota Laksamana’s rapid development, particularly in the housing, tourism and medical sectors, had the potential to turn it into a new administrative centre for the state.
“I am targeting Kota Laksamana to become the state capital. That is what I hope for.
“Who can tell me where Melaka’s capital is now? There is none. There is no such place.
“So, if we win Kota Laksamana, we will give its people a centre that will become the state capital of Melaka,” he said at a campaign event for the Melaka election at the BN Kota Laksamana operations room here today.
Also present were MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong and BN candidate for Kota Laksamana, Melvin Chua Kew Wei.
Ab Rauf, who is also the caretaker Melaka chief minister, said the proposed economic corridor would include a medical hub, as well as various tourism and commercial projects expected to transform the state’s economic landscape.
He said existing facilities and planned developments in the area included Encore Melaka, Oriental Melaka Straits Medical Centre and a new shopping mall in Klebang.
He said the plans would be implemented in stages, with the first five years serving as the foundation for further development.
“We will first take five years to draw up the initial plans, which can then be continued over the following five years,” he said.
On the election contest, Ab Rauf said a BN victory in Kota Laksamana was not impossible, expressing confidence that Chua could spring a surprise in the polls.
“Our target is Kota Laksamana. I believe that this time, this year, this month, this term, it is not impossible for Melvin to become the people’s representative.
“Given the times and circumstances, change is necessary. If we continue to remain where we are, it will be difficult to bring about change,” he said.
Ab Rauf said the state government would help provide facilities and reduce bureaucracy to accelerate economic development in the area.
Melvin is facing a three-cornered contest against Pakatan Harapan candidate Low Chee Leong and Bersama candidate Ethan Lim Zhi Hao.
In the 2021 Melaka election, Low retained the seat with a majority of 11,494 votes.