GEORGE TOWN: Penang will propose a scheduled cleaning operation from time to time to rid Pulau Gazumbo of its garbage.

       Penang environment committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) would be tasked to “heal” the polluted man-made island.

       “The island is heavily polluted, and this is due to the high tide phenomenon that washes ashore the rubbish from Penang island to the man-made island.

       “The strong currents act as the ‘transporter’ that bring the rubbish, especially plastic bags and bottles, ashore.

       “Hopefully, this can be resolved with scheduled cleaning operations,” Phee said when contacted.

       “But to solve the matter once and for all, we must stop treating our rivers or seas as dumping grounds.

       “Otherwise, there will be no end to this problem,” he added.

       Phee said the island, which is less than 1km off the coast of George Town, falls under the jurisdiction of the north-east district office.

       Recently, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow had also said that the state government would be gazetting the island as the Middle Bank Marine Sanctuary.

       State agrotech, food security and health committee chairman Dr Norlela Ariffin said it was vital to protect the marine ecosystem in the area, which is known for its high level of food stocks.

       “I have heard from fishermen in the area that the surroundings of Pulau Gazumbo have big, fresh clams, and other marine species,” she said.

       “Local authorities such as MBPP can conduct cleaning operations as often as possible to keep the island clean so that fishermen around the area can improve their catch,” she added.