YB. R.S.N RAYER - A.D.U.N. SERI DELIMA, PENANG

Seri Delima assemblyman R.S.N. Rayer said the fishermen were unhappy as only 28 of them were offered RM11,000 each to make way for the Jelutong Expressway project, while nine other fishermen and 43 crew-members had been left out.
”I will request for more considerable amount to be paid to the affected fishermen,” he said after a meeting with the fishermen yesterday.
The fishermen said their problems started 60 years ago when their forefathers were ordered to relocate to pave the way for development near George Town.

Ideal spot: Sungai Gelugor fishermen showing the site which they feel is suitable for a new fishing jetty.

“Our forefathers were asked to move from one location to another. But the problems persisted with no long-term solution,” said a fisherman who declined to be named.
“Our catch has also dwindled over the years, especially now with reclamation works in progress to make way for a condominium project,” he added.

Fisherman Mohd Noor Ariffin said they were not consulted about such projects that have direct impact on their livelihood.
“A few months ago we were told to relocate before April 15 to Lebuh Bakau some 6km away from our (existing) village,” he said.

Rayer said he would also look into getting compensation from the condominium project developer.
“As their income is adversely affected, they must be compensated accordingly,” he said.
Rayer also said that he would liaise with the district office to postpone the relocation exercise to Lebuh Bakau jetty.
Southern Penang Area Fishermen Associa-tion chairman Md Zainol Ajamin said the fishermen’s income dropped by about 50% from between RM300 and RM400 per catch to about RM200.