Nelayan Klebang dakwa kerja tambak laut jejas periuk nasi

Nelayan from Kampung Pinang, Klebang are protesting the construction of the Melaka Coastal Economic Zone (MWEZ) project, as it has reportedly reduced their seafood income and jeopardized their livelihood. Zainudin Abu, a 61-year-old fisherman, expressed his concerns, stating that the diminishing fish catch due to MWEZ construction has significantly impacted their earnings.

He mentioned that previously, a catch of fish could generate between RM200 to RM500 per tide, sometimes reaching up to RM800 when the catch was plentiful. Now, without the catch of fish, their income has decreased. Musa Arif, a 66-year-old fisherman, highlighted the issues of docking facilities, sampan and engine obstruction, and the lengthy legal process for obtaining a permit, which can take up to a year or even two years, causing fishermen to risk being arrested for unauthorized fishing.

Despite these challenges, the fishermen emphasized that they are not against the development but are concerned that it should not hinder their ability to earn a living from the sea. Meanwhile, Abdul Aziz Ab Wahab, a 71-year-old fisherfolk, stressed the ongoing problem of an inadequate water supply and drainage system, which affects the farming community in Kampung Pinang.

Aziz, who tends to around six hectares of farmland, requested the government to build a concrete drainage system, known as a 'U' shape, to alleviate the issue of waterlogged fields that force fisherfolk to clean up clogged waterways every season.