BAYAN LEPAS: The mud issue in Pantai Esen and Permatang Damar Laut here is a longstanding problem, according to the villagers and fishermen in the area.
They said their beach had been mired in mud woes for over a decade now but that the issue had worsened recently.
Besides the change in weather, some villagers said it could also be due to an ongoing coastal reclamation project.
Tahir Desa, 76, whose house faces the Permatang Damar Laut beach and stands about 100m from Pantai Esen, claims the mud issue began with the construction of the second Penang Bridge in 2011.
"The mud then was is more watery, unlike the flakey texture now. And the mud now emits a foul odour when the tide is low.
"Back then, we had issues going out to sea and back. There were days we had to sleep in our boats to ensure we were able to go out to sea early before the tide receded. We also had to ensure that we could be back early when the tide was still high to ensure our boats could make it back to shore. "Otherwise, we would have to tie our boats and wade through the mud to get back.
"The mud is getting thicker and thicker now. So where we used to fish is covered with mud now. And we have to go deeper into the sea to fish," he told the News Straits Times when met today.
Tahir said numerous complaints had been lodged.
"Recently, we were told that the company undertaking the reclamation project would suck out the mud. We hope that can be done soon," he added.
Tahir said Pantai Esen used to be a picturesque beach, filled with clams.
"Now, we can't find clams as they are covered with mud.
"No one knew the existence of Pantai Esen back then until the Movement Control Order when it went viral.
"There was mud then but not as bad. It is a combination of various factors," he said.
Fisherman Saaroni Hasan, 74, also a long-time villager of Permatang Damar Laut, said the mud had always been there.
"Just that now, there is more mud.
"When the tide is high and the waves are strong, it brings with it the mud, which lodges at the beach.
"Some people are blaming it on the reclamation project. It is not the main reason though. There are a host of contributing factors. People are just trying to create an issue," he added.
Syafiq Izzat, 31, said he realised the mud problem had worsened after the MCO.
"It was there all along. There was no foul odour then.
"Now, with the mud issue, it is difficult for fishermen like us to make a living. We have to go far to fish, and at times, the catch is very little," he said.
Earlier today, it was reported that Pantai Esen, once a popular spot for visitors and photographers to admire sunsets, is now plagued by muddy sludge, foul odour, and blackish water.
The situation is said to be linked to the nearby Silicon Island development.
Although the beach still offers stunning views, the odour is noticeable from 100m away. Due to the dark, muddy water, no visitors are seen swimming or playing in the area.