THE state government is still discussing the compensation package for fishermen affected by the Penang South Reclamation (PSR) project.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said an announcement will be made once a decision is reached.

“The state government and project delivery partners must study the offer for fishermen, as the master agreement for the Penang Transport Master Plan has just been signed,” he said in a statement today.

He was responding to former exco Dr Afif Bahardin, who last Monday expressed concern about the fishermen’s welfare.

Chow said a committee was set up in 2016 to address issues faced by the group in light of PSR’s implementation, with Deputy Chief Minister Ahmad Zakiyuddin Abdul Rahman appointed as the panel’s new chairman.

“The Penang government plans to offer the best compensation package through the Social Impact Management Plan, which includes ex gratia payments, a new jetty and jobs that provide a stable income during the PSR implementation period.”

He added that records showed 633 engagement sessions were held with the community between 2015 and last month.

“The compensation package and benefits scheme for fishermen at the PSR site will be implemented before land reclamation works begin by early next year.” – Bernama, July 6, 2020.