KUALA TERENGGANU, Aug 8 — The state government will hold an engagement session with tourism operators and relevant agencies to discuss the issue of coral reef damage believed to have been caused by anchoring activities in prohibited areas.
Terengganu Tourism, Culture, Environment and Climate Change Committee chairman Datuk Razali Idris said the meeting, scheduled to be held from August 26 to 28, aims to identify the actual cause of the problem and examine weaknesses in enforcement.
He said the session would not just be a space for discussion, but also serve as a platform for the implementation of stricter action against any parties found violating laws and regulations.
“I take seriously reports of coral reef damage, especially those involving day-trip boats. If the allegations are proven true, such actions are irresponsible and cannot be tolerated.
“The conservation efforts undertaken by the government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and communities, which have taken decades or even hundreds of years, should not be destroyed in the pursuit of profit,” he said when contacted today.
Razali said the state government would also study proposals to review permits for day-trip operations or impose heavier penalties on boat operators who flout the rules.
He said the state government would not compromise with any day-trip operators or boat operators found to have ignored the stipulated operating procedures, resulting in damage to coral reefs.
“Pulau Redang is a state treasure and a tourism asset that must be protected. All parties must shoulder the responsibility of ensuring environmental sustainability on Pulau Redang rather than just pursuing profits,” he added. — Bernama
