CJMY
The Prangin Canal, a vital component of the Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park in Penang, is currently in the midst of a comprehensive two-month cleaning initiative under the supervision of Penang Development Corporation (PDC) Setia Urus Sdn Bhd.
Addressing concerns over littering and its impact on the canal’s closed system, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng urges park visitors to play a role in maintaining cleanliness.
Wong also highlights issues arising from the introduction of non-native fish species, impacting the canal’s ecosystem originally populated by koi fish.
With a temporary removal of koi for the duration of cleaning, Wong cautions against littering and the release of foreign fish species, with potential fines for offenders. The RM40,000 cleaning cost is borne by PDC Setia Urus Sdn Bhd.
Supervised cleaning targets Prangin Canal litter
Under the vigilant eye of Penang Development Corporation (PDC) Setia Urus Sdn Bhd, the Prangin Canal at Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park is undergoing a thorough two-month cleaning process.
The cleaning initiative, with a budget of RM40,000, aims to preserve the ecological integrity of the canal and enhance the overall appeal of the Sia Boey park.
PDC Setia Urus Sdn Bhd Chief Operating Officer, Loi Kah Horng, stated that the cleaning project is a crucial component of their commitment to maintaining the park’s environmental quality.
Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, in a recent media conference, expressed his concern about the accumulation of plastic bottles, plastics, and breadcrumbs in the canal.
He emphasised that the canal functions as a closed system, making it imperative for visitors to refrain from littering.
Wong highlighted the role of park visitors in contributing to a cleaner environment and urged them to exercise responsibility during their visits.
Ecosystem impact and cautionary measures
Wong Yuee Harng drew attention to specific challenges arising from the release of non-native fish species into the canal, which has a direct impact on the ecosystem initially populated by koi fish.
To address this, the koi fish have been temporarily relocated during the cleaning process, which is scheduled for completion in January next year.
Wong stressed the importance of maintaining the park’s original ecosystem and encouraged visitors to refrain from feeding fish in the closed system canal.
Despite ongoing cleaning activities, the Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park remains open to the public.
Wong, however, advised caution around the cleaning site and issued warnings of potential fines for those found littering or introducing foreign fish species into the canal.
To ensure compliance, CCTV cameras have been strategically installed in the park for monitoring purposes, enhancing efforts to maintain a pristine and ecologically balanced environment.
As the cleaning of Prangin Canal progresses, the public is urged to play a proactive role in preserving the cleanliness of the Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park.
The temporary removal of koi fish and cautionary measures implemented by PDC Setia Urus Sdn Bhd underscore their commitment to sustaining the park’s ecological balance.
With CCTV surveillance in place, the authorities are poised to enforce regulations and deter undesirable activities.
As the cleaning initiative, covering a cost of RM40,000, nears completion, the community is reminded of their responsibility in safeguarding this cultural and natural heritage site for future generations.
Source: Buletin Mutiara
Jimmy Tan
Admin
