GEORGE TOWN – The Penang Fishermen’s Association (PenMutiara) denied allegations that it has wavered from its opposition to the Penang South Islands (PSI) project, formerly known as Penang South Reclamation project, following the submission of a memorandum of support by a small group of fishermen to the chief minister last week.
Its chairman Mahadi Md Rodzi said that all 6,000 members of the association still hold the same stance it has held since 2016, opposing the construction of the three artificial islands due to their detrimental environmental effects.
According to him, there has been no motion until now expressing support for PSI in the association’s official meetings.
“PenMutiara has never withdrawn our protest against the PSI. In fact, our stance has remained the same since the decision at our general meeting in 2016.
He said the issue of the fishing community supporting this project does not arise.
Last week, NGO Lestari Alam Sekitar Penang, together with a few fishermen, submitted the signatures of 1,521 fishermen and members of the public who support the PSI project.
The list was handed over to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and state infrastructure and transport exco Zairil Khir Johari at Komtar here.
Mahadi said PenMutiara had taken disciplinary action against one of its members who was present and involved in the submission of the memorandum of support.
Speaking to reporters recently, he said the fisherman was given a show cause letter on September 28, and that it was replied to on Monday.
“I want to advise members who want to support PSR to please leave the association.
“If he continues to be in the association, he will be subject to the association’s constitution according to the Fishermen’s Association Act 1971, because we are an organisation under the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority.” – The Vibes, October 16, 2021
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