MELAKA opposition leader Dr Mohd Yadzil Yaakub criticised DAP’s proposal to rename Jalan Hang Tuah as Jonker Walk 2.0.
He argued the name should be preserved as a symbol of Melaka’s history and nationalism. He also pointed out that the area has been a successful business hub for the Malay community.
“DAP should continue their previous efforts, which strongly opposed the closure of roads in Banda Hilir, as it harmed local businesses and inconvenienced tourists,” he said in a statement on his official Facebook page.
Meanwhile, he is not alone in the criticism against the DAP. He is joined by UMNO Youth Chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh who supported maintaining Malay cultural identity in the area.
Akmal suggested it should not adopt a ‘Chinatown’ concept, as Melaka already has designated areas for other cultures. He stated that Melaka already has Little India in Jalan Bendahara and Chinatown in Jonker Walk for the Indian and Chinese communities, so it would be better to preserve and develop Jalan Hang Tuah with a Malay cultural concept.
“It would be more appropriate and important, as it ensures that traders and the people of Melaka experience the state’s economic development,” he said in a statement on his official Facebook page on Friday (Jan 31).
DAP’s organisation secretary and ADUN for Kota Laksmana, Low Chee Leong said the proposal followed the success of the night market in Jalan Hang Jebat, which has been known as ‘Chinatown’ for the past 25 years.
Meanwhile, Bersatu has launched a statewide tour to prepare for upcoming state elections (PRN) in Sabah and Melaka. Party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin stated that the tour aims to receive early briefings and strengthen party leadership by expanding membership and establishing new branches.
Meanwhile, Melaka Bersatu chairman Tan Sri Rahim Tamby Chik targets winning at least 15 state assembly seats in the next PRN. — Feb 1, 2025
