NIBONG TEBAL – Pollution allegedly caused by a palm oil processing plant has led to Jawi’s Sg Tengah, a lifeline for some 4,000 villagers and fishermen, turning black and noxious.
Such is the situation for more than 20 years, affecting the well-being of residents of four nearby villages, many of whom depend on marine resources for a living.
The situation worsened when the mangrove trees that served as a buffer zone were damaged.
Kg Changkat resident Hashim Shafie said the mangrove forest used to be a popular bird-watching site, attracting visitors both local and foreign.
The area, located in the Byram Forest Reserve, was once rich in marine life, including shrimp, fish and mussels, but now, they are difficult to find due to the pollution.
“Previously, fishermen were able to obtain shellfish, mussels... but now, everything is almost extinct.
“The residents also have to bear the ‘punishment’ of the bad smell from the river. It stinks every time it rains.”
The 61-year-old said villagers have complained to the authorities several times, but no action has been taken.
“Previously, the Seberang Prai City Council and the Irrigation and Drainage Department came, but they did not do anything.”
Representative Abd Rahum Kasa, 91, said more than 100 traditional fishermen in the area are finding it harder to earn a livelihood as a result of the pollution.
“I have received many complaints from fishermen. Their catch is greatly reduced, apart from having to bear the high cost of fishing in waters far from their usual base.”
Fisheries authorities could not be reached for comment. – The Vibes, November 5, 2020
