THE Penang Fishermen’s Association (Pen Mutiara) has unanimously passed a resolution rejecting any land reclamation project in the state.

It reached the firm decision at its annual general meeting today, which proves the official stance of the fishing community in the state in rejecting any reclamation project that affects its livelihood.

Chairman Mahadi Md Rodzi also dismissed claims that fishermen have been forced to protest against the projects.

“As many as 101 delegates representing more than 6,000 fishermen in Penang attended the meeting today, and we unanimously reject any sea reclamation project in the state.

“The resolution represents the voice of the grassroots, especially fishermen who will be directly affected by sea reclamation plans.”

Pen Mutiara will also object to a tuna landing jetty development plan in Batu Maung if it involves the acquisition of Fisheries Development Authority land.

“Fishermen are not against the plan, but we do not want it to be built on the authority’s land, where we already have a restaurant, port and jetty,” said Mahadi. – Bernama, November 25, 2021.