Maran Perianen
Kota Laksamana could become the new capital of Melaka, said caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. He spoke on 8 November on the campaign trail. In addition, the state has a five-year plan for the area and will work with the private sector.
However, the idea is not new. A proposal to move the capital was tabled in the state assembly on 31 December 2024. Ab Rauf agreed with it at the time.
Overall, here is how the proposal began, what the plan covers and what has not been announced.
How the Kota Laksamana proposal began
Kota Laksamana assemblyman Low Chee Leong first raised the idea in September 2024. It was tabled on the last day of that year’s assembly sitting. Ab Rauf agreed with the proposal. Even so, it was not a formal decision.
Low’s case was simple. The area is newly developed and has room for modern infrastructure. Moreover, he said it could attract investment and raise Melaka’s profile.
Meanwhile, the area sits on reclaimed land close to Bandar Melaka. It has become a state commercial hub, replacing Taman Melaka Raya. The proposal would move the capital from the historic city.
Low said the new capital should be named only after the needed infrastructure is in place and fully operating. He added that planning between state authorities and stakeholders was the next step. In 2026, Ab Rauf pointed to the area’s rapid development as the reason for its potential.
What the five-year plan covers
The five-year plan is tied to the Straits of Melaka Waterfront Economic Zone. The zone covers commercial, residential, healthcare and tourism sectors. Meanwhile, Ab Rauf says growth there could change the state’s landscape.
Much of the zone sits under private finance initiative concessions. These were awarded to private companies, which are not named. However, Ab Rauf said the state has yet to integrate the plans because the companies acquired the land.
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Projects mentioned in recent reports include the Oriental Melaka Straits Medical Centre and new shopping at Tarcor Park. In addition, tourism and commercial activity are expected to expand.
The state says it will coordinate with the private sector and provide support. Furthermore, it plans to reduce bureaucracy. Ab Rauf also appealed to residents to join in developing the area, which he wants to see given new life.
What is still unknown
No cost has been announced for the plan or for moving the capital. Likewise, no date has been given for any move. The reports give no timetable beyond the five-year plan. The reports name no approval beyond the existing concessions.
Low’s condition still matters. Infrastructure must be fully operating before a capital is named. Therefore, a formal designation looks some way off.
However, land is the other hurdle. The state has not yet integrated the plans because the private companies hold the land. As a result, coordination with them is the first step. That also explains why the state stresses its role as a coordinator and supporter.
In short, Kota Laksamana may become Melaka’s capital, but the move remains a proposal with no cost or date. Watch for state announcements on the five-year plan and the economic zone.
Navin Kumar Perianen
Yalinie Mathan
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