Summary
- Nearly 800 fishermen received about RM12 million in ex-gratia payments.
- Another 194 active fishermen received boats and engines worth RM17.46 million.
- More than 24,000 mangroves have been planted and 18 artificial reefs deployed.
GEORGE TOWN, September 27 — Silicon Island’s success should be measured by improvements to fishing communities alongside economic development, Pulau Tikus assemblyman Joshua Woo said.
Woo said nearly 800 eligible fishermen received about RM12 million in ex-gratia payments, while 194 active fishermen received new boats and higher-powered engines worth RM17.46 million.
Support also includes seafarer training, education programmes for fishermen’s children and a cooperative with nearly 1,400 members.
Environmental measures include planting more than 24,000 mangroves, deploying 18 artificial reefs and releasing 25,000 barramundi and 52,000 tiger prawns, while marine monitoring has recorded early coral growth around Pulau Kendi.
