Consumers' association wants PM to scrap Penang reclamation project

A consumer association has appealed to the prime minister to scrap the Penang South Islands reclamation project, saying it would cause "irreversible damage" to the environment and fishing community.

Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) president Mohideen Abdul Kader said it also contradicts the government's Madani policy framework, which promotes sustainable development.

"We are curious as to why the Penang state government is adamantly insisting on proceeding with the reclamation project despite its adverse ecological and social impacts.

"Faced with strong criticism of the reclamation project, the state government is now justifying the project by claiming that Penang needs more land for development and creating jobs.

“This claim is baseless and contradicted by the reality on the ground," Mohideen (above) said in a statement today, noting the over 1,214ha of land in Batu Kawan, which is well connected to the nearby ports and airport.

Many at risk

Elaborating, Mohideen claimed that the project will exacerbate the climate crisis as it would involve massive portions of the sea covered with sand and soil, resulting in increased carbon emissions.

In addition, the project will also destroy the fishery industry on the island, and bring about a demographic change to the island by displacing the affected community, he noted.

"Their places will be taken over by the rich and wealthy foreigners from China, Hong Kong, and the West.

"Is favouring both the local and foreign wealthy elite in line with the Madani principles?" he asked.

Mohideen said the estimated RM16 billion reclamation cost could be better used to improve the living standards of the poor and marginalised, provide better healthcare and education, and improve traffic mobility.

"Politics and cronyism should not be allowed to trump the interests and welfare of our people, social justice, and the environment."

Last month, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim denied claims that he has not defended the livelihoods of fisherfolk following the approval of the project.

Anwar asserted that he raised concerns about the highly criticised project, especially regarding the livelihoods of fisherfolk and the residents in the area.

“Allow the process of the project to take its course.

“And if they (stakeholders) want to file an appeal against the project, we (the federal government) will listen, and the state government will also provide an explanation,” the premier was reported as saying.

PSI to be carried out after management plan approval - CM

PM denies neglecting fisherfolk after PSI project approved

PSI's EIA report public viewing receives positive comments – DOE

PSI project has the support of the majority in Penang - CM