THE Mengkuang Dam in Bukit Mertajam, which was closed since 2014 to make way for its expansion project, has been reopened to visitors for recreational activities yesterday.
With its reopening to the public after closing for almost a decade, Buletin Mutiara spoke to a few people when conducting checks at the dam, located at central Seberang Perai.
According to Sgt Mohd Hafiz Md Isa, who is an auxiliary policeman with the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), more than 1,000 visitors were recorded when the dam officially reopened yesterday.
“Perhaps, this dam is attracting a lot of people because it is located close to the border between Kedah and Penang.
“You can see that almost 700 visitors have already been recorded up to 9.30am as of now. I’m expecting the number to rise to 1,500 in the evening,” he said when met by Buletin Mutiara.
However, he said, only 350 visitors were allowed to enter as of now due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We will surely control the number of visitors here to prevent another Covid-19 cluster from emerging.
“We will also ensure everyone is following the standard operating procedures (SOPs) before entering,” he added.
Buletin Mutiara approached a few visitors for their views.
Nadirah Mahamad, 25, along with her friend Nor Effareena Fasha Zulkifle, 25, were seen enjoying the scenic view.
“We really like the view of the hills from here. It’s breathtaking!
“We hope the authorities can provide facilities such as washrooms for the public in the near future,” they said. Both of them hail from Nibong Tebal.
A senior citizen, Ishak Saad, 69, pointed out it was an ideal place for people to relax and unwind themselves.
He said the local council can consider planting more trees to allow visitors to seek shelter from the scorching hot sun.
“The place is good, compared to before the expansion project took place. It is spacious and suitable for people to enjoy a brisk walk or even jog.
“However, it is very hot here as not a single tree can be found here. I foresee it will be hotter and humid during noon time,” said Ishak.
Mohd Asri Rozali, 30, welcomed the reopening of the dam to the public.
“I always come here before the dam was closed for expansion works.
“It’s a wonderful place here,” he said.
The dam is open from 7am to 7pm.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhammad