AS a gesture of concern for the welfare of the fishermen community, the Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) has contributed RM689,500 to the Persatuan Nelayan Kawasan (PNK) Pulau Pinang Selatan today.
It is learned that a total of 111 fishermen from the Gelugor and Batu Uban units were affected by TNB’s 8.5km monopole transmission tower project near the Penang Bridge, connecting the Perai Power Station (SJ) Main Inlet Substation (PMU) to the Light PMU in Penang.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the guest of honour at the mock presentation ceremony at the Jen Hotel, lauded TNB for its commitment to social corporate responsibility (CSR) programme.
Chow said that it would help ease the burden on those fishermen.
“Today’s ceremony reflects the concern of the state government and the related agency towards our people, showcasing the ongoing efforts to develop the fishing community.
“As the chief minister, I congratulate the association, fishermen, TNB, and the government agencies for their successful negotiations, mutual understanding, and coming up with a solution that benefits all parties.
“The ability to supply electricity such as this is necessary, as it would act as a catalyst for economic growth, encompassing various fields which include industry, infrastructure development, transport, and tourism.
“The security and stability of the electricity supply are crucial for enhancing physical development, such as the road network, public transport, as well as increasing the capacity for port and airport,” Chow added.
TNB president and chief executive officer Datuk Seri Baharin Din presented the mock cheque to Persatuan Nelayan Kawasan (PNK) Pulau Pinang Selatan general manager Omar Hassan.
It was witnessed by Chow, state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, and Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (Penang) director Abd. Aziz Rosdi.
Chow also noted that TNB’s ongoing project, with an estimated cost exceeding RM500 million, is vital to ensure energy security on the island and for the future.
Furthermore, TNB chief grid officer Dev Anandan explained that the project would establish a direct connection of electricity supply from the national grid to Penang through overhead line transmission from the mainland, significantly bolstering the island’s electricity supply.
The transmission tower project is expected to be completed in 2024.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat