Is the proposed Malacca Gateway Port potentially a military base for China?

Media statement by DAP National Political Education Director and MP for Kluang Liew Chin Tong on 17th December 2015

According to Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, the Federal Government has agreed in principle to the Chinese initiative in developing a deep-sea port and Ocean Industrial Park at Malacca Gateway as part of its backing for the “One Belt, One Road” vision by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Malacca Gateway is a project by KAJ Development Sdn Bhd which plans to reclaim three islands with a gross development value of RM40 billion.

Liow and the Federal Government should answer the following concerns of Malaysians:

First, has the concession to operate a port already been issued, and to whom? Will the concession be granted to a Malaysian-owned company or a China-owned company? To what extent will China interest be involved ?

Second, what is the impact of Malacca Gateway Port on other ports, particularly the Port of Tanjung Pelepas and Port Klang, given their proximity?

Third, what would be the impact on MMC’s Tanjong Bruas plan? Or has the Tanjong Bruas plan been scrapped?

Fourth, what is the business plan for Malacca Gateway Port? Where are the cargo coming from? Will the project end up as a White Elephant like Sri Lanka Hambantota Port which has limited cargos coming its way and a huge debt owing to China that the Sri Lankan Government finds it difficult to repay?

Fifth, can the Government guarantee that the Port will never be used to further China’s military interests?

I hereby await Liow’s reply.