GEORGE TOWN – The state government has not received court orders prohibiting the gathering of information on fishermen affected by the Penang South Reclamation (PSR) project.
Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Ahmad Zakiyuddin Abdul Rahman said this is because the appeal process for the approval of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) report does not affect the information collection process.
On comments that the PSR project should be temporarily stopped as long as the EIA appeal is still pending, the state government is of the view the appeal process will not affect the work carried out, he said at a press conference in Komtar today.
Previously, Badan Pemikir Melayu Pulau Pinang (Pemikir) said the state government looked desperate to begin PSR work although the court had yet to hear the application filed by the Fishermen’s Association of Penang (Pen Mutiara).
Pemikir chairman Datuk Muhamad Farid Saad was reported saying that the state government issued a misleading statement about the process of negotiations with the stakeholders.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Zakiyudin said as of yesterday, 423 of 1,615 fishermen had registered with the Permatang Damar Laut and Gertak Sanggul Local Fishermen’s Service Centre (PPSN) and gave good feedback on the Social Impact Management Plan (SIMP).
“We hope the fishermen from the nine units in the south of Penang to register their information at PPSN and not be influenced by irresponsible allegations.
“This is because we want to hear the views and suggestions of the fishermen themselves with an open mind.”
Currently, he said, the state government has provided information and received feedback about the proposed SIMP package.
Zakiyuddin said among the proposals were increasing compensation, provision of engines with 115 horsepower, provision of nets and sonar as well as financial aid paid directly to the fishermen without going through a third party.
“The intention of the state government is to listen to the views of fishermen before the SIMP package is finalised.”
Zakiyuddin said the state government regretted the actions of some parties that had caused confusion and fear among the affected fishermen.
“Recently, it was found that certain parties have threatened the fishermen by stating those registered with the state government will not be supported in the renewal of fisheries licences and permits to obtain livelihood assistance.”
To this, he suggested that the head of the Fishermen Unit arrange a meeting with the state government to enable them to obtain accurate information and to provide feedback.
The PSR project involves three artificial islands covering an area of 1,700ha in the waters of Permatang Damar Laut, off Bayan Lepas.
It is part of the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP) that is worth RM46 billion. – The Vibes, February 24, 2021
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