BAYAN LEPAS: There has been no scientific proof that the Silicon Island reclamation works have contributed to pollution at Pantai Esen recently, says Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn Bhd (PIC) chief executive officer Datuk Seri Farizan Darus.
Farizan said numerous factors could have polluted the famed beach with sludge, odour and discoloured water.
The Department of Environment (DoE) and the Department of Fisheries (DoF) had taken samples from the affected areas for testing and were awaiting the results on the cause of the pollution.
"Based on initial results from our sample (obtained from a private laboratory), the muddy sludge was found to be algae. We are still identifying the source (of the algae).
"There are claims that it was from reclamation works. If the claims are true, then a similar phenomenon would also happen at our silt curtain. But such was not the case.
"And there is no scientific proof to link the reclamation works with what happened there," he told newsmen during a media tour to the Silicon Island project site today.
Results from the DoE and DoF were expected to be ready in three months time.
It was previously reported that Pantai Esen, once a popular spot for visitors and photographers to admire sunsets, had become polluted by muddy sludge, foul odour and blackish water.
Certain quarters have linked the situation to the nearby Silicon Island development.
Although the beach still offered stunning views, from as far as 100m away. No visitors were seen swimming or playing in the water.
Farizan said, nevertheless, they had put in place short, medium and long-term plans to look into the matter.
He said they had also appointed the relevant consultants to do the needful.
"We have cleaned up the area and are monitoring the situation," he added.