Melaka state Exco of Tourism, Heritage and Culture Datuk Muhammad Jailani Khamis has apologised for the confusion over the opening of a Disney-themed park in the state that he mentioned in a press conference on Tuesday (15 November).
Speaking in a press conference at the Tourism Promotion Division (BPP) in Kota Cemerlang, Jailani explained that the ‘Disney City’ project was merely a plan and the state government has not received any formal agreement from Disney themselves.
He also said that there had been a misunderstanding between him and KCI Metrolink Sdn Bhd, the company behind the state’s newly proposed ‘Maglev’ train system because the company had only informed their intention to bring Disney to Melaka.
“I would like to apologise for the confusion regarding Disney City or Disneyland. This started with the company’s plan when proposing to build a magnetic train system to connect tourist attractions, and if possible to make a ‘spot’ available for Disney or a mini Disney theme-park to be developed.”
“We have not mentioned that we have signed an agreement or any MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) or MoA (Memorandum of Agreement) with Disney,” he said, reported Melaka Hari Ini.
“What was being speculated was that it seemed to be an agreement, but actually it was not an agreement.”
“This is merely our plan to help develop the state for the benefit of the people so that our economy will be more vibrant and relevant in the next five years.”
We want Disney here but cannot force it
Jailani then stressed that they are still in the planning process and they cannot force it if Disney does not wish or want to build a theme park in Melaka.
“We want Disneyland because it is a family-themed tourist attraction. Thus, when a company approached us with the intention of meeting with the management of Disneyland, we said please do so,” he said.
Earlier, the EXCO member claimed that the construction of the Disney theme park in the state will start in 2027.
However, a reporter for Southeast Asia CNN went on for verification with a Disney official and found that Disney was not aware of any such arrangements.
 in Kota Cemerlang, Jailani explained that the 'Disney City' project was merely a plan and the state government has not received any formal agreement from Disney themselves.){kind=link}