PH's Cheah Eyes Kukup As Tourism, Entrepreneurial Hub Through JS-SEZ Opportunities

By Samantha Tan Chiew Tieng

PONTIAN, June 30 (Bernama) -- Drawing on his experience as an entrepreneur, Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Kukup seat, Cheah Chee Hong, is determined to ensure residents benefit directly from the economic opportunities generated by the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).

Cheah, 48, said Kukup has strong potential to be a key tourism destination, especially with the upcoming operation of the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, which is expected to increase tourist arrivals from Singapore into Johor.

“When the RTS is completed, more Singaporeans will come to Johor. Since Kukup falls within the JS-SEZ area, I want to position it as one of the preferred destinations for Singaporean visitors. I believe this can create many new economic opportunities for the local community,” he told Bernama here.

He said that if given the mandate, priority would be placed on upgrading infrastructure, including roads, street lighting and parking facilities, while improving essential services such as internet connectivity and a more reliable electricity and water supply.

As part of efforts to stimulate local economic growth, Cheah also proposed establishing a large-scale night market near the Kukup ferry terminal, capable of accommodating up to 200 stalls dedicated to local entrepreneurs.

“My goal is not only to create more job opportunities but also to nurture more entrepreneurs. I want Kukup’s young people to build businesses in their own communities instead of having to move to Johor Bahru or Singapore to earn a living,” he said.

He also encouraged young voters and first-time voters to return home and cast their ballots, saying their participation could help realise plans for economic development and strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.

On fishermen’s welfare, Cheah said the MADANI Government has introduced various support measures, including a diesel subsidy of RM1.65 per litre, the Fishermen’s Cost of Living Allowance of RM300 per month, and incentives for fish catches.

However, he noted that some fishermen still face challenges in obtaining information and completing applications for available assistance.

“I want to help them access information, complete applications and simplify the process so that more eligible fishermen can benefit from the assistance provided,” he said.

Cheah, who was previously active in non-governmental organisations (NGOs), believes politics provides a wider platform to create meaningful change.

“If I could help 10 people through NGO work, as an elected representative, I may be able to help 1,000, 10,000 or even the entire Kukup community. That is why I chose to enter politics,” he said.

Originally from Kluang and having lived in Johor Bahru for the past decade, Cheah said Kukup is familiar territory, having frequently visited the area since his school years to enjoy its seafood and fishing village atmosphere.

The Kukup state seat will witness a straight fight between Cheah and Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Md Israk Abdullah in this state election.

The constituency has 34,968 registered voters, with Malays forming the majority at 60.07 per cent (20,988 voters), followed by Chinese voters at 36.85 per cent (12,875 voters) and Indians at 0.89 per cent (312 voters), with the remainder comprising voters originating from Sabah and Sarawak.

The Johor state election will be held on July 11, while early voting is scheduled for July 7.

For the latest news on the 16th Johor state election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/johor. 

-- BERNAMA 

N56: KUKUP: 34,968

1. Md Israk Abdullah (BN-UMNO)

2. Cheah Chee Hong (PH-PKR)

(2022: Datuk Jefridin Atan: BN-UMNO: Majority: 8,201)