THE Penang government is committed to protecting and conserving the remaining seven clan jetties in Weld Quay for the future generation.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said it was crucial to enhance the liveability of local residents residing at the jetties to ensure long-term sustainability.
“Only seven of the original 10 jetties remain in Weld Quay. They are the Yeoh Jetty, New Jetty, Lee Jetty, Tan Jetty, Chew Jetty, Lim Jetty and Ong Jetty.
“The clan jetties are important because they are the only area in Pengkalan Kota that is considered as part of the George Town Unesco World Heritage Site.
“Since George Town attained the Unesco recognition in 2008, our utmost mission has always been to conserve the Clan Jetties as a unique heritage site.
“Thus, in order to coordinate such efforts, a special Clan Jetties Committee was set up by the state government to oversee issues such as the maintenance of jetty structures, the commercial activities, as well as the sewerage system issues at the jetties,” Chow said in his speech before officiating the ‘Eye on Jetties’ photo exhibition at Jetty 35 in Weld Quay, George Town today.
Also present were state Tourism Development, Arts, Culture and Heritage Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen and Clan Jetties Village Community Management Council (MPKK) chairman Chan Kim Keat.
The National Water Services Commission (SPAN) is now conducting a study on the sewerage system for the clan jetties.
Up until now, the households at the seven clan jetties are still discharging their sewage directly into the sea.
On this matter, Chow said the state would do a follow-up with SPAN.
Speaking about the photo exhibition, Chow said it was special because it showcased the uniqueness and the beauty of the Clan Jetties and their residents.
“I hope that visitors will spend some time exploring the clan jetties besides enjoying the photo exhibition here.
“They can also experience the living heritage of Penang.
“Furthermore, I hope that the exhibition will inspire visitors to go on and capture fascinating images and to keep them as their own personal mementos,” Chow said.
He added that some of the photographs would be showcased at the clan jetties after the exhibition.
The ‘Eye on Jetties’ photo exhibition which started on Dec 24, 2019, will end on Feb 8 this year.
It is jointly organised by the Tanjong parliamentary service centre, Pengkalan Kota service centre and Clan Jetties MPKK.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud