Datuk Setia Haji Abdul Ghani was appointed to hold the post of Melaka Chief Minister, replacing Datuk Haji Talib Karim on July 31, 1972. Datuk Setia Haji Abdul Ghani took quick action in managing the crisis at the time with a focus on the development of the Malacca state. He also worked on 440 acres of coastal land reclamation in the city of Hilir and Tengkera to be developed with shophouses and office space projects, hotels, shopping complexes, hospitals and apartments now known as Taman Melaka Raya and Laksamana City Park. Datuk Setia Haji Abdul Ghani also creates a site and sustained a new business by modifying the long-standing railway station along Jalan Hang Tuah by providing land ownership to Mara, PKNM, Agricultural Board, Melaka Youth Combination (MGBM), UMNO and Association Melaka Taxi as well as several private companies. Datuk Setia Haji Abdul Ghani also obtained the approval of the Transport and Finance Ministry to place a jetty in Tanjung Keling. Batu Berendam Airport is also upgraded for convenience to all, especially investors. Datuk Setia Haji Abdul Ghani also undertakes an opening of 1,800 acres of land with oil palm cultivation in the mukim of the sembang, Jasin, now known as the Kesang Valley Felcra.