200 is a comfortable budget to pick up Baitcasting. There are quite alot of low profile BC reels selling just below 100, good enough to start learning with. As my interest in Baitcasting just got triggered too , i may not be able to tell you the specific models. Likewise for the rod.

I've fished in kukup before, at the chalet like bungalows on concrete pillars. Was there for 2 days, find it better to fish during incoming tide. Landed a good size guhood and ah send ( but please don't consume ah seng caught there, our waste falls directly to the sea/ seabed ). Fishing in Batu Paha...

My friend uses shimano nasci 6000 for surfcasting, not sure if the distance casted can met to be deemed surfcasting but you can try it out. If your budget is lower maybe u can try some surecatch reels, den once u get the hang out surfcasting you may wan to consider upgrading.