CAP wishes to bring to the attention of the Tourism Ministry and the Penang state government the disappointing level of cleanliness in Penang. I feel naming this island the ‘Pearl of the Orient’ is just empty talk.

Recently, Jakob Von Uexkull from Sweden visited Penang. He is the founder and chairman of the Right Livelihood Foundation which was established in 1980, based in Sweden.

Every year, this foundation gives the Right Livelihood Award in Sweden’s Parliament in appreciation and support of individuals who contribute ideas, views and plans towards challenging issues facing mankind. This award is regarded as the ‘Alternative Nobel Prize’.

The following are his observations on Penang:

Batu Ferringhi beach - The sea water was terribly polluted as a result of sewage water being released into it. This pollution could be clearly seen with the naked eye.

No effort was carried out to clear horse dung along the beach. Horses are a threat to children’s safety because they might collide with those playing on the beach.

Jet skis and speedboats were very close to the beach posing a threat to swimmers.

Excessive harassment from water-sport peddlers who were forcing visitors to use their services.

Pedestrian walkways around Penang - A lack of pedestrian walkways or pavements forced people to walk along dirty roadsides which were heavily polluted with vehicle smoke and litter from stalls set up on the pavement.

This was a potential threat to public safety in view of vehicles traveling at high speed. Pedestrians also inadvertently became easy targets for snatch thieves when they walk by the roadside.

The level of cleanliness in most restaurants was deplorable, with some existing beside sewerage systems. Food stalls set up close to main roads also risked being polluted with vehicle smoke.

In the wake of the Penang state government giving more attention to heritage areas which are recognised by Unesco, these problems seem to have been ignored.

Comparative, comprehensive and effective effort must be undertaken and this involves the co-operation of the Tourism Ministry because Penang is an international tourist attraction. The authorities must do everything in their power to keep the island clean and safe, not only for tourists, but Penangites.

The writer is president, Consumers Association of Penang.