ALOR STAR: The Sultan of Kedah Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah wants the authorities to regulate the cleanliness of Pulau Payar during his visit to the tourist island today.
The ruler said he was appalled at the island’s state of maintenance and also told the authorities to review the current number of visitors allowed at a time and measures taken on the protection of corals.
“From my first impression upon stepping onto the island, it is dirty and unkempt. This may be due to there not being many workers (to look after its cleanliness) or other factors.
“According to the briefing (earlier), there are 800 visitors allowed (at a time). But during the off-peak season, the numbers are lower. However, this number (of visitors) should be regulated to ensure better management of its cleanliness,” he said.
The Sultan walked for a kilometre along the island’s shores to check on the beach.
He stopped at several places and commented on the improvements that could be made.
The Sultan also wanted the authorities to convene an immediate meeting on the situation and would personally look into its outcome.