LANGKAWI: Pantai Chenang here has come alive over the past three days as visitors take the opportunity to collect various marine life that have washed ashore.
The phenomenon of cockles, sea snails, clams, and other shellfish appearing on this popular public beach is not unusual and is eagerly awaited by the residents every time the strong winds and big waves arrive.
Resident Shamsuhaila Zainuddin, 38, said various marine life began to fill part of the Pantai Chenang shoreline since 4pm on Wednesday, drawing many visitors to the area.
"This is a normal phenomenon for us locals each August and September. When this phenomenon coincides with the weekend, it turns into something like a festival for collecting clams and snails here."
Another resident, Zaidi Mansor, 48, from Kampung Belak, said residents would collect the shellfish when the tide is low, and they typically head for the beach as early as 8am.
"Yesterday, there were many clams and shellfish to be found, but today it is a bit less. The shellfish provides immediate income for the residents here.
"I am just a bit concerned to see some visitors eagerly heading into the sea to forage for marine life because the bad weather has not subsided. It is much safer to collect the shellfish at the edge of the beach," he said.
Kedah and Perlis Maritime Department director First Maritime Admiral Romli Mustafa reminded the maritime community to be cautious of unpredictable weather changes at this time.
"The Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) has issued warnings for thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds in the waters off Perlis and Kedah, which will continue until Wednesday.
"This kind of weather is dangerous for maritime activities, especially for small boats, passenger boats, and water sports involving both domestic and international tourists," he said in a statement today.