Kota Laksamana Has Potential To Become Melaka's New State Capital - Ab Rauf

MELAKA, Nov 8 (Bernama) -- Kota Laksamana has the potential to become the new state capital of Melaka due to rapid development that can catalyse economic growth and transform the state's landscape, says Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.

He said the state government has formulated a five-year development plan for the area and will work alongside the private sector to realise that potential.

"The plans are in place, but we have yet to integrate them because these concessions were awarded to private companies undertaking projects under the Private Finance Initiative (PFI). This is beyond our control as they have acquired the land.

"However, the state government will coordinate with the private sector, provide necessary support and reduce bureaucracy to accelerate economic activity in Kota Laksamana," he told reporters when met at Jalan Hang Tuah here today.

Ab Rauf said the development plan also encompasses areas under the Straits of Melaka Waterfront Economic Zone (SM-WEZ), covering commercial, residential, healthcare and tourism sectors.

"I appeal to the people to join me in developing Melaka and breathing new life into Kota Laksamana so that it can serve as the new state capital," he said.

Commenting on preparations for the Northeast Monsoon, Ab Rauf said the state government has stepped up disaster preparedness, including identifying 102 flood hotspots across the state.

He said the locations were identified based on records of floods recurring at least three times within three years.

"Preparedness measures include round-the-clock flood monitoring across six major river basins, alongside continuous recording of rainfall data and river water levels.

"The early warning system has also been enhanced with the installation of 14 flood warning sirens and 10 surveillance cameras at strategic locations across Melaka," he added.

Ab Rauf said flood mitigation assets have also been readied, comprising 21 water control gates, 21 pump houses and 14 portable emergency pumps that can be mobilised to critical areas, in addition to monitoring 105 flood retention ponds.

He added that 447 small-scale works worth RM43.8 million have been carried out this year to bolster flood management infrastructure and mitigate disaster risks.

He also advised residents, particularly in coastal areas, to remain vigilant as the high-tide phenomenon expected until Nov 17 could cause flash floods in low-lying areas.

"The state government will continue to issue early alerts and advisories through the Melaka State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) to ensure effective emergency response," he said.

-- BERNAMA