LANGKAWI – An environmental movement has warned that the proposed reclamation off Padang Matsirat here may see the island losing its Global Geopark status conferred by Unesco.
Friends of Langkawi Geopark (FLAG), formed to protect the Unesco status and live up to its ideals, said the mega project, involving an 800ha reclamation, risks ruining the prime tourist destination’s ecology and hydrology.
The group, in a letter dated January 31, informed Langkawi senior assistant district officer Ahmad Fuad Che Ani that it is disturbed by the proposed development.
The project was reportedly mooted by Langkasuka Land Sdn Bhd, which is linked to Kuala Lumpur-based construction conglomerate Widad Business Group Sdn Bhd.
Widad has purportedly paid “commitment” fees to the Kedah government for the initial approval to develop a RM40-billion resort-style township featuring healthcare facilities, condominiums, hotels and institutions of higher learning, as well as a marina.
The project could jeopardise Langkawi’s Unesco nod, running counter to the conservation and preservation of the site for its rich geological heritage and culture.
A copy of FLAG’s letter has been shared with The Vibes.
The group’s president, Datuk Kamarulzaman Abdul Ghani, said the geopark status provides sustainable development as a guideline and point of reference for any large-scale project.
He reminded the authorities that the status is renewed by Unesco every four years.
Although it does not bar development from taking place, works must adhere to the sustainability rule.
If the state insists on proceeding with the reclamation, the Global Geopark recognition may be withdrawn, bringing shame not just to Kedah, but the country, said Kamarulzaman, who was general manager of the Langkawi Development Authority in the early 2000s.
The developer has applied to reclaim parcels of land off Padang Matsirat, a small agrarian township that is also the site of Langkawi International Airport.
Kamarulzaman said FLAG is opposed to the project because the developer intends to reclaim an additional 800ha of land.
“The reclamation should not be approved as it is premature. There is a need to get the necessary approval first before such a huge project is launched.”
Furthermore, such a project needs the green light from the National Physical Planning Council under Section 20B of the Town and Country Planning Act 1976.
Besides requiring an environmental impact assessment report, said Kamarulzaman, there is also the need for a social impact development assessment.
And, there is the issue of how the project will affect neighbouring communities, the fisheries sector, the area’s ecology, and the sea levels fronting the island.
“We also need an analysis on cost and other benefits to be released.” – The Vibes, February 5, 2021
