Melaka Govt Proves Effectiveness With Debt Reduction, Increased Revenue Collection

MELAKA, 13 Jan (Bernama) -- The Melaka government’s success in both reducing debt and improving revenue collection underscores its systematic and proactive efforts to drive the state’s economic development.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said state revenue collection reached RM489.79 million, exceeding the target by 100 per cent, placing Melaka in third position for the most improved revenue collection performance.

“The remaining debt in 2023 was successfully reduced from RM631.95 million to RM625.49 million last year, and this is a notable achievement, especially considering that 2024 was a challenging year,” he told a press conference after delivering his New Year’s message at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) in Ayer Keroh here today.

Ab Rauf also said that the state government had maintained its projected investment target of RM5 billion this year by focusing on attracting more foreign investors, positioning Melaka as a leading investment destination.

He said that the economic development in Melaka was expected to continue growing with the increase in visitors and tourists, following the extension of Melaka Visit Year until 2026, which coincides with Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

“The state government is optimistic about reaching the target of 16.5 million tourists this year, and at the same time, we will continue offering free entry to tourist sites in conjunction with the public holiday commemorating the Declaration of Independence of the Federation of Malaya on Feb 20.

“We are providing free entry to 10 interesting tourist spots in Melaka. At the same time, we welcome any private companies or players in the tourism industry who wish to suggest similar initiatives to the state government,” he said.

Ab Rauf said the tourist spots included the Melaka River Cruise, Menara Taming Sari, Melaka Zoo, and museums under the Melaka Museum Corporation (PERZIM).

--BERNAMA