BAYAN LEPAS: The Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn Bhd (PIC) has directed officers from the Fishermen's One-Stop Service Centre (PPSN) to closely monitor siltation in Pantai Esen and surrounding areas following a recent news report.
PIC CEO Datuk Seri Farizan Darus said that the corporation was consulting experts, including environmental impact assessment (EIA) specialists involved in reclamation studies, to gain insights into the causes of this phenomenon.
"PIC will take appropriate follow-up actions based on the advice and recommendations from these experts to address the siltation issue.
"We remain committed to ensuring that all reclamation works adhere strictly to guidelines for the well-being of the environment and the local community," he said in a statement to the New Straits Times today.
Earlier reports indicated that Pantai Esen, once a popular destination for visitors and photographers to enjoy sunsets, is now affected by muddy sludge, foul odours, and discoloured water. The situation has reportedly worsened over the past two months, potentially linked to the nearby Silicon Island development.
While the beach still boasts stunning views, the unpleasant odour can be detected from 100 metres away, and the dark, muddy water has deterred visitors from swimming or engaging in recreational activities.
Farizan encouraged the public and fishermen to report any unusual occurrences to the nearest PPSN office in Permatang Damar Laut or Sungai Batu, or to call the Pantas hotline at 1300-88-9700.
PIC serves as the special purpose vehicle established by the Penang government to oversee the progress of the Silicon Island project.
On Aug 8, PIC and the project developer, Silicon Island Development Sdn Bhd (SIDSB), attended an engagement session organised by the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM) with the Southern Penang Island Fishermen's Association (PNKPPS). Key attendees included LKIM Penang Director Raymond Rosidih, Assistant Director Izwan Iliadi Iliassa, PNKPPS board members, and fishermen's unit leaders.
During the session, fishermen raised concerns about siltation, and both PIC and SID provided clarifications.
On Aug 5, SID, alongside the Penang Department of Environment (DoE), conducted a joint investigation in the affected area.
"The investigation confirmed that the Silicon Island project is in compliance with the approved EIA report, including the implementation of required mitigation measures.
"Engagement sessions held by PPSN information officers with local fishermen and residents also indicated that natural phenomena, such as high tides and monsoons, often disturb the muddy seabed.
"The southern coastline of Penang Island is naturally a mudflat area, as noted in the EIA report. Additionally, no dredging activities have been conducted in nearby areas that could contribute to the siltation issue.
"Coastal monitoring has been conducted periodically since June 2023, with the next monitoring scheduled for December 2023, following the commencement of land reclamation work, and continuing every three months thereafter, including March, June, and October 2024," he added.
Farizan said that these reports were submitted to the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), and analyses show no significant changes in the seabed when comparing the initial baseline survey with subsequent monitoring results.
A soil investigation conducted between 2014 and 2016 consistently revealed thick layers of soft clay beneath the