THE Penang government has worked hard to hasten the restructuring of cockle breeding on the mainland, especially for central Seberang Perai district, south Seberang Perai district and newcomer north Seberang Perai.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the restructuring process has given the fishermen in Penang the opportunity to manage the breeding process more systematically and scientifically using technology.
“The cockle breeding process which was proven a huge success in the Teluk Lekir coast in Perak was emulated here in Penang, thanks to all the relevant bodies for playing a part in it.
“After the model was proposed to be brought into Penang, we welcomed it and thought it would be a huge boost for the fishermen here, especially those involved in cockle breeding.
“We hope more fishermen villages in Penang involved in the breeding of cockles will benefit from this initiative,” Chow said after visiting the Kuala Juru fishing village on the mainland today.
Meanwhile, Chow said the state government has received suggestions from the local community at the Kuala Juru fishing village to turn the place into an eco-tourism site.
“We agree with this idea, but it must be given due importance and attention by all parties involved to make this a reality.
“With collective efforts from all the relevant parties, we can surely make this happen one day,” Chow added.
Also present during the visit were Deputy Chief Minister II Prof Dr P. Ramasamy, state Youth and Sports Committee chairman Soon Lip Chee and Bukit Tengah assemblyman Gooi Hsiao-Leung.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud