By Jailani Hasan
LABUAN, March 21 (Bernama) -- The proposed Labuan’s Phase 1 Waterfront development is set to drive economic growth and provide significant spillover benefits to the island, according to Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Assoc Prof Dr Romzi Ationg.
Dr Romzi said the RM38 million project located at Victoria Harbour Beach, the site of the old wet market in downtown Labuan, is poised to generate economic activities for local entrepreneurs and new tourism products.
“The development will enhance tourism and open up opportunities for small businesses and service providers,” he said, adding that such projects are essential to position Labuan as a key tourism and business hub in the region.
He stressed that the project does not mean the government is ignoring other infrastructure and connectivity issues.
“The government, through Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa, has made efforts by meeting with the Sabah Chief Minister to expedite the resumption of ferry services, which remains a priority for the community,” Dr Romzi said.
On March 15, Dr Zaliha said Labuan is on the cusp of major transformation with the proposed waterfront development, which will boost economic growth and enhance tourism appeal. She visited the project site and was briefed by the Labuan Building, Planning and Control Department.
The proposed development will feature recreational spaces, gastronomy experiences, public event venues, a food bazaar, sea sports activities, water cruises, aesthetic lighting, water taxi services, and parking facilities.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to realise the CHASE (Clean, Healthy, Advanced, Safe and Eco-Friendly) City vision under the Labuan Local Plan 2040. It aligns with the Labuan Development Blueprint 2030.
The project, which is funded under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), involves several government agencies, including the Federal Territories Department, Labuan Corporation, the Tourism and Culture Ministry, the Public Works Department, tourism-related associations and private entities.
A key feature is the creation of vibrant nightlife attractions, including a Labuan flea market, night and stargazing trails, restaurants and bistros.
-- BERNAMA
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