Melaka Chief Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh says development must include villages like Masjid Tanah, highlighting upcoming infrastructure projects
ALOR GAJAH: Development must not be concentrated solely in cities and iconic locations, according to Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
He stated that villages like Masjid Tanah must be given the opportunity to progress without losing their roots and identity.
Ab Rauf said the state government has planned various developments in Masjid Tanah for a better future for local youth.
These include the West Coast Expressway (WCE), the Melaka-Dumai Bridge, and a new Masjid Tanah-Sungai Udang link to the Sungai Udang-Paya Rumput-Ayer Keroh Highway.
“However, this agenda requires a stable government and political climate, so we must together look at what needs to be done to bequeath to future generations,” he said in his speech at the closing ceremony of the Masjid Tanah Carnival: Our Village here today.
He added that the real strength of development and prosperity begins with united villages and people who care for one another.
The carnival aimed to encourage the younger generation to appreciate their origins and be proud of their village heritage.
Ab Rauf said the event was part of the state’s larger agenda to make Masjid Tanah a symbol of unity, progress, and balanced well-being.
Over 40,000 visitors and participants were involved in the carnival, which featured more than 30 spiritual, sports, educational, and arts events from 18 December until today.
The ceremony also saw six awards presented to successful native sons of Masjid Tanah who contributed to the area’s development.
Recipients included TRX City Sdn Bhd CEO Datuk Seri Azmar Talib and former Masjid Tanah MP Tan Sri Abu Seman Yusop.
