Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun has criticised several NGOs for proposing to rename Port Dickson as “Pantai Dermaga” to remove traces of British colonial heritage from local place names.
According to 8TV News, speaking after chairing the weekly State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting today, Aminuddin revealed he had received information that the initiative was led by IDENTITI and the Malaysian Muslim Solidarity (ISMA) movement.
“Why only Port Dickson? change them all”
I was informed that these NGOs want to change Port Dickson’s name to Pantai Dermaga. In my view, if you want to change names to remove colonial elements, then change them all — not just one,” Aminuddin said.
According to reports, the NGOs are planning to launch a public petition to rally support for the name change, claiming that “Dickson” reflects colonial influence and should be replaced to restore local identity.
Change Port Klang, change Georgetown… Why do it one at a time? It would take forever,” he added sarcastically.
Renaming could cause practical problems
However, Aminuddin — who is also the Member of Parliament for Port Dickson — stressed that the public should view the name issue with an open mind, noting that Port Dickson already has a unique identity that is widely recognised.
Why is Port Dickson being singled out? It has been a famous tourist beach for as long as I can remember. Since I was born, it has always been called Port Dickson,” he said.
Aminuddin also pointed out that renaming just one location could create complications for mapping and administrative records.
They want to hold a press conference about this, but from my perspective, if they are serious, then change all colonial names nationwide at once. Changing only one place will just make things complicated for mapping authorities,” he said.
