Mentakab: The National Fishermen's Association (NEKMAT) is committed to strengthening support infrastructure for the fishing community and fisheries industry in the East Coast through the construction of a PETRON petrol station owned by the association.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM) chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil stated that the project would not only provide fuel supply facilities for nearby residents but also contribute to rural economic development. He emphasized that the initiative would support the sustainability of the fisheries sector, strengthen the national food supply chain, and deliver economic benefits to the local community. His remarks were made during the groundbreaking ceremony for NEKMAT's petrol station and NEKMAT's 2025 Hari Raya gathering in Mentakab.

NEKMAT chairman Abdul Hamid Bahari informed reporters that the 1.8-acre (0.73 hectares) petrol station would include five fuel pumps, two electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, and a fast-food restaurant, with a total development cost of nearly RM7 million. The station is also set to offer NEKMAT's products and fresh fish from local fishermen in Mentakab. Abdul Hamid highlighted that NEKMAT's efforts are aimed at diversifying its business activities to stimulate the association's economic growth. He mentioned that if the project proceeds smoothly, NEKMAT plans to replicate it nationwide.

In addition to the petrol station, NEKMAT, through its joint venture company Prosper Sunshine Sdn Bhd, is developing a residential project in Lestarry Heights, Mentakab, comprising 432 housing units. Abdul Hamid explained that Lestarry Heights will be a gated and guarded community featuring three types of houses: two-storey Garden Homes (139 units), two-storey Superlink Homes (193 units), and two-storey Semi-Detached Homes (100 units). He stated that the project reflects NEKMAT's commitment to providing better housing facilities while contributing to local socioeconomic development.