GEORGE TOWN, Oct 26 (Bernama) -- Samples to determine the cause of pollution at Pantai Esen near Permatang Damar Laut, Bayan Lepas, will be collected this Monday, according to State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo.
He said his team, along with the State Department of Environment (DOE), will visit Pantai Esen to collect samples, as the source of the contaminant that has polluted the previously popular tourist beach remains unknown.
He said initial inspections indicated that the substance is odourless but contains impurities, and further investigation is necessary before drawing any conclusions.
"I have instructed the DOE to investigate the origin of this pollution and have provided a list of actions to be taken, with sample collection being one of them.
"We need to await the results of the analysis to determine whether the contaminant originated from the sea or construction activities. We cannot make accusations against any party until we have the findings, which we will announce in due course," he told Bernama today.
Sundarajoo added that the state government views this issue seriously, as such pollution, if confirmed, could harm not only the marine ecosystem but also affect the surrounding community.
Recently, the media reported that the beach, known as Penang’s “hidden gem”, had been marred by mud and silt for over two months, causing a foul odour in the area, with many snails frequently found dead.
Meanwhile, Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn Bhd (PIC) chief executive officer Datuk Seri Farizan Darus said that, as a responsible corporate neighbour supporting the conservation of the tourist site, PIC mobilised 10 workers today to help clean the surface of the area through its project developer.
He said this immediate step is part of PIC’s commitment to the local community and aims to help improve the current situation for residents and visitors.
“PIC acknowledges the community’s concerns regarding the silt issue at Pantai Esen, and while this cleaning is being conducted, PIC is also working closely with environmental experts conducting a thorough investigation to understand the cause of this phenomenon.
“The results of their study will serve as a guide for long-term solutions to preserve Pantai Esen’s environmental integrity,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
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