PORT DICKSON: The construction of a new jetty to replace the ageing Pengkalan Kempas jetty is set to commence this December, and is anticipated to draw more tourists to the area, which is famed for its udang galah (giant freshwater prawns) and serves as a popular hub for anglers.
Datuk Mohd Faizal Ramli, the chairman of the Negeri Sembilan Heritage, Technology, Innovation, and Digital Committee, announced that the project has received a federal allocation of RM500,000, granted to the Port Dickson District and Land Office.
"We are hopeful that the new jetty will significantly increase tourist numbers, particularly those taking river cruises from Melaka who wish to stop at Pengkalan Kempas.
"They (Melaka River Cruise operators) have expressed plans to allow tourists to disembark and explore this town, and the Pengkalan Kempas Megalith Complex. However, the current state of our jetty is concerning as it has outlived its usefulness, and we eagerly await the completion of the new jetty, which will revitalise the area," he said when met here.
Mohd Faizal said that the new jetty, located approximately 40 kilometres from Seremban, will breathe new life into the local community, particularly benefiting fishermen and traders in the surrounding areas.
He added that the state government has also secured an allocation of RM500,000 for upgrading the Telok Pelanduk fisherman's hut, located 16.5 km from Pengkalan Kempas.
The Linggi state assemblyman noted that the hut, positioned by the sea, is currently in a dilapidated state and requires repairs to modernise its appearance and enhance its appeal to tourists.
"We aim to beautify the area by painting it in attractive colours, encouraging tourists to stop by and take pictures," he remarked.
A check by Bernama found that the old jetty's infrastructure appears unsafe and requires improvements to ensure the comfort of the local fishing community. Several rows of old buildings near the jetty have been repainted, with murals adorning their walls, adding vibrancy to the town's atmosphere.
The last upgrade to Pengkalan Kempas Jetty was over 20 years ago, and it holds historical significance as it once served as a merchant route and a stopping point for ships carrying dignitaries.
Meanwhile, fisherman Lee Ching Dong, 37, said that the local fishing community expressed hope that the new Pengkalan Kempas jetty will enhance the economy for residents and provide greater comfort for visitors.
"Currently, our jetty is in a dilapidated state, with only a wooden ladder available for boarding boats. We are optimistic that this upgrade will proceed smoothly, ensuring the comfort and safety of all visitors," he said.
Local resident, Shapra Sulaiman, 61, also voiced hopes that the new jetty would help restore the prominence of Pengkalan Kempas, which once thrived as a bustling hub of commercial activity, and served as a key shipping port in the state.
"We believe that the new jetty will attract tourists to Pengkalan Kempas, particularly families looking to relax and fish safely along the river," he added. – BERNAMA