MELAKA: The Melaka state government aims to attract investments from China for its tourism, industrial and port sectors.
Chief Minister Adly Zahari said an estimated 17.8 million tourists were expected to visit the state this year, thus creating numerous opportunities for Chinese investors.
“Chinese tourists account for the biggest number of visitors to Melaka, followed by Singapore and Indonesia. So, looking at the vast investment opportunities, I believe that we should make it easier for them to invest,” he told a press conference here, today.
Earlier today, the Chief Minister was visited by 80 Chinese delegates, comprising members of the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) and industry players from the country.
According to the MCCC, the number of Chinese visitors had more than doubled over the past five years, from one million recorded in 2012 to 2.2 million visitors last year.
Meanwhile, Adly said the state’s industrial sector had received RM4.65 billion worth of investments, RM2.25 billion of which were foreign investments.
“The industrial and manufacturing sectors are the backbone of Melaka’s development, accounting for around 43 per cent of the state’s Gross Domestic Product over 15 years, but there are still plenty of investment opportunities for Chinese investors,” he said.
China’s One Belt, One Road initiative could also be a platform for Melaka to attract investments in the state’s port sector, said Adly, adding that the state was focused on the development of three main ports - the Melaka Gateway Port, Tanjung Bruas Port and Kuala Linggi Port.
“Right now our main focus is the tourism sector, to be followed by the industry sector. The ports are in the midst of construction so it will take a bit more time,” he said.