BALIK PULAU – Gertak Sanggul is sometimes called the ugly side of Penang as coastal stretches in the area reek of waste from nearby pig farms.
However, the problem may be curtailed as two operators will be closing down, according to Balik Pulau MP Datuk Muhammed Bakhtiar Wan Chik, as demand for pork will be fulfilled by centralised farms that are more efficient and hygienic in comparison.
He has alleged that a farm operator had failed to install a waste treatment facility on the premises despite being fined regularly, resulting in untreated waste flowing into a stream that leads to the open sea.
“With pig farming no longer a part of the district, we can now focus on the rehabilitation of the riverways and putting a stop to this form of water pollution.
“I also want to make it clear that this is not a racial or religious issue. It concerns best environmental practices as those affected are of all religions.”
Sahabat Alam Malaysia had highlighted the need for better farm practices in Penang due to land scarcity and the threat of pollution.
Meanwhile, a state executive councillor told The Vibes that there is now pressure for Penang to have tighter enforcement on pig farm operators.
The lawmaker, who prefers anonymity, said some operators are given a 14-day exemption to clean their premises or risk stiffer penalties.
“These pig farmers who are already elderly have other businesses and pig farming is just an additional income. So they do not want to invest much money in their operations.”
However the issue remains a sensitive one as some lawmakers feel that they may lose political capital.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow could not be reached for comment. – The Vibes, April 10, 2022
Additional reporting by Rachel Yeoh
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