The Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM) has slammed the DAP state government for going ahead with the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP) at the expense of the fishermen.

Its chairperson, Irmohizam Ibrahim said the Penang government was being arrogant despite Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports that it would harm the environment and the livelihood of fishermen.

"Compensation in exchange for the environment is not a smart move on the part of the Penang DAP state government. This proves the state government does not really care for the fate of the fishermen.

"The fishermen have sacrificed a lot to provide a source of protein to Malaysians and marine life in Permatang Damar Laut is the source of their livelihood," he said in a statement today.

Irmohizam said the PTMP project will certainly affect the lives of fishermen, particularly those in Kampung Sungai Batu as they depend heavily on marine resources there.

"The Penang state government is being unfair and has strayed from the real purpose of development. Do not blame the fishermen if there is not enough fish in the market and cause price volatility.

"The state government should protect the economic ecosystem of fishermen and the national heritage and should not use development as an excuse to deny the right of fishermen," he added.

- Bernama