Teluk Kalong Beach Hit By Coal Pollution Again

CHUKAI, Aug 23 (Bernama) -- Teluk Kalong Beach here has once again been affected by coal pollution over the past three days, believed to have originated from a barge that broke apart near the beach last January.

A local resident,  Azhar Ngah, 64, said the black solid material had been washed ashore by the tide, covering a 300-metre stretch of coastline and affecting the cleanliness and scenic appeal of the recreational area.

He said the beach had experienced similar pollution last January following a coal spill from a barge, although cleanup operations were subsequently carried out by the parties involved.

“I hope the authorities will immediately carry out cleanup operations to remove the coal debris, ensuring the cleanliness of the beach as well as the safety and well-being of fishermen and visitors,” he told Bernama when met at Teluk Kalong Beach today.

Meanwhile, fisherman Mohamad Azrul Naim Rahim, 36, expressed concern over the beach's condition, which he said had previously been clean but had been covered with black solid material for the past three days.

However, he said the current coal pollution was not as severe as the incident last January, with a smaller volume of debris washed ashore and a more limited affected area.

“Nevertheless, we are concerned that the coal spillage from the barge could worsen if the authorities fail to take immediate action,” he said.

Meanwhile, Terengganu Tourism, Culture, Environment and Climate Change Committee chairman Datuk Razali Idris said he had instructed the Kemaman Municipal Council (MPK), Department of Environment (DOE) and Marine Department Malaysia to investigate the source of the coal pollution, which is the second such incident reported at the beach this year.

He said the relevant agencies had also been directed to immediately clear the coal debris from the beach to ensure the coastal area was clean, safe and conducive for visitors.

“Cleanup operations must be carried out immediately as the beach is a popular tourist destination,” he said.

On Jan 12, media reports stated that Teluk Kalong Beach had been polluted by coal believed to have originated from a cargo spill after a barge drifted and sank in the area.

-- BERNAMA