Develop Bayan Lepas before reclaiming islands, says Anwar

PKR president Anwar Ibrahim says the Penang government should not proceed with the implementation of the Penang South Reclamation until further study and a detailed review of the effects had been done.

BUKIT MERTAJAM: The Penang government has been urged to develop the Bayan Lepas area, especially Gertak Sanggul, first before undertaking the reclamation project for the construction of three artificial islands there.

PKR president Anwar Ibrahim said the Penang South Reclamation (PSR) project planned in the Gertak Sanggul area was still seen as isolated from the current development and has caused worry among the residents.

“I agree with the reclamation project but it has to be preceded by development in the Bayan Lepas area, including Gertak Sanggul, first as the area is quite marginalised.

“If we neglect the area, it will leave residents worried. We don’t want that to happen,” he told reporters after officiating the Penang PKR convention here today.

Also present were PKR secretary-general Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Penang PKR chairman Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik and other state leaders.

Earlier, Anwar, in his speech, reiterated his stance that the Penang government should not proceed with the implementation of the PSR until further study and a detailed review of the effects on the area and those involved were being carried out.

He said he also brought the issue to the attention of Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, the Penang government and Pakatan Harapan.

“It is not just the compensation aspect that should be considered but a long-term project to ensure the sustainability of the livelihood of the fishermen in the area.”

He said he did not reject the development or the project but careful and detailed review must be carried out in order for the project to benefit everyone. - FMT