Melaka proposes Southern Gateway Economic Corridor

The state government has proposed the Southern Gateway Economic Corridor, involving Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, and Johor, aiming to benefit all participating states in various aspects.

This initiative, announced by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, promises enhanced collaboration and development opportunities.

Forming the Southern Gateway Economic Corridor

A steering committee will soon be established to initiate discussions, coordination, and studies related to the Southern Gateway Economic Corridor.

This corridor seeks to leverage the geographical proximity of Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, and Johor to create a development framework that mutually benefits the states and their populations.

“Given that these three states are contiguous, a development corridor that provides mutual benefits to the states and their people must be created,” said Chief Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh.

He highlighted the potential for collaboration, particularly in the tourism sector.

“For instance, Negeri Sembilan and Melaka are renowned for eco-tourism, which can be developed as a supporting industry between the two states rather than competing against each other,” he added.

Economic and infrastructure collaboration

The Southern Gateway Economic Corridor also aims to foster industrial collaboration, benefiting residents near state borders.

The Chief Minister emphasised the need for a united approach to alleviate regional infrastructure challenges.

“The three states can resubmit a proposal to the federal government for a review of the ‘West Coast Highway’ project to alleviate traffic congestion on the North-South Expressway, especially during festive seasons and weekends,” said Ab Rauf.

This initiative underscores the importance of federal support in addressing the infrastructural needs of the participating states.

The proposal for the Southern Gateway Economic Corridor was announced during the state government’s monthly assembly and a public meet-and-greet session organised by the Jasin Municipal Council (MPJ).

This platform provided an opportunity for the Chief Minister to discuss the corridor’s potential impact on tourism and industrial sectors, highlighting the shared benefits for Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, and Johor.

The Southern Gateway Economic Corridor is expected to attract federal attention due to its strategic importance and potential to drive regional development.

By collaborating on tourism and industrial projects, the corridor aims to create a more robust and integrated economic zone.

“I believe that this economic corridor will attract the Federal Government’s attention to address the needs of the participating states,” said Ab Rauf.

The initiative is designed to not only improve economic conditions but also enhance the quality of life for residents in these regions through better infrastructure and increased tourism opportunities.