Satellite imaging debunks claims on reclamation project, says Penang exco

FMT:

Satellite imaging debunks claims on reclamation project, says Penang exco


Agrotechnology, food security and cooperative executive councillor Fahmi Zainol says contrary to the claims by the opposition, the site for fishing is further away.

The Penang South Island project has been a hot topic for many years with local NGOs and fishermen arguing that it would damage the marine ecosystem and ruin the livelihood of thousands of fishermen. (SRS Consortium pic)


GEORGE TOWN: The state government said satellite imaging carried out at the contentious Penang South Island (PSI) project shows it will not impact fishermen’s activities in the area, contrary to the opposition’s claims.

Agrotechnology, food security and cooperatives executive councillor Fahmi Zainol said satellite imaging by the Malaysian Space Agency over 200 consecutive days revealed that the site in question was not a fishing spot.

“Fishermen actually fish further away from that site,” he told the state assembly.

Fahmi was responding to claims by opposition leader Fauzi Yusoff (PN-Sungai Dua) that reclamation being carried out in Penang had reduced the fishermen’s catch.

Fahmi also said data from the Penang fisheries department showed the catch rate between 2015 and 2020 was much higher compared with before 2014, despite five reclamation projects taking place throughout the state.

Fahmi’s response, however, failed to assuage Fauzi’s concerns.

“I hope the state government takes this matter seriously, and Yang Berhormat, since you are an exco, speak like one. Don’t speak like a cybertrooper,” said Fauzi.

In response, Fahmi said he spoke based on data and findings provided by the Penang fisheries department.

“When have I been taking data from cybertroopers? Don’t make such accusations,” he said, adding that he was not trying to champion the project.

Fahmi also said he was prepared to review data by Pen Mutiara, the Penang fishermen’s association.

“I am ready to listen (to the fishermen). I have no issue.”

Fauzi then asked whether he could produce some facts as well as bring the fishermen to meet Fahmi, to which the latter instantly agreed.

Fauzi then retracted his “cybertrooper” remark.

The PSI reclamation project has been a hot topic for many years with local NGOs and fishermen arguing that the project would damage the marine ecosystem of southern Penang island and ruin the livelihood of thousands of fishermen.

On Sept 1, Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow announced that the environmental management plan report for the Silicon Island project had been approved and that the preparatory works for the project had begun on the same day.