Datuk Seri Abu Zahar was appointed to the post of Melaka Primary Chief Minister on May 23, 1997 following the late death of Datuk Seri Haji Mohdzin. He assumed this post until December 2, 1999. He strives to make Melaka as a "Knowledge Corridor" as Melaka has been the center of knowledge activities in the archipelago during the 500 years ago by providing all facilities such as adding educational institutions in Melaka. Datuk Seri Abu Zahar also has a future planning to develop Melaka into 'City-State'. He created a 274-acre Village Village in Village Datuk Murad, Merlimau to enhance the socio-economic of the people. In addition, several housing projects are carried out through the Malacca State Development Corporation (PKNM), the Malacca Customary Land Corporation (PERTAM) and the private sector. In addition, Datuk Seri Abu Zahar created a Melaka Information Technology Corridor (MITC) project in an area of 120 hectares near the RM 500 million Krubong Industrial Park. Through this project, the Melaka state government will advance in the field of information technology in line with the rapid progress of the Multimedia Corridor (MSC) in Cyberjaya. Datuk Seri Abu Zahar is also involved in voluntary bodies, youth, and welfare.