New airport won't disturb Tioman Island's environment - MB

Pahang Menteri Besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail says that both state and federal governments will monitor the construction of a new airport in Tioman Island to ensure that it will not affect the island’s environment as it has been declared as a marine park.

He said at the state legislative assembly that at least seven government departments would monitor the construction of the project to ensure that it would comply with the set rules.

The departments involved are the Department of Environment, local authority, Department of Marine Park, Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), PLANMalaysia, Water Regulatory Body (BKSA), State Secretary Office and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency.

On the problem of illegal exploration in the highland area, especially by large-scale farmers, Wan Rosdy said the Pahang government viewed the problem seriously and monitored the matter even during the administration of former menteri besar Adnan Yaakob.

“As a government that cares about the welfare of its people, the state government is very tolerant of smallholders whose goal is to make a living for their families.

“In fact, the Ops Gading has been implemented since Nov 1 with the placement of the army and General Operations Force personnel, as well as other local agencies at the highlands,” he said.

Wan Rosdy said the placement was aimed at enhancing the monitoring efforts and demonstrating the security forces’ presence including on public holidays.

The state legislative assembly adjourned sine die.

- Bernama