Green group slams Penang's U-turn on protecting vital seagrass meadows

Pertubuhan Jaringan Ekologi dan Iklim Pulau Pinang (JEDI) expresses deep disappointment over the Penang State Government’s recent decision to rule out gazetting Middle Bank as a marine sanctuary, as reported by Malay Mail on May 21, 2025.

The reason given, to avoid disrupting ongoing and future coastal projects, reinforces the perception that development interests continue to outweigh environmental protection and public wellbeing.

Middle Bank, one of the last surviving seagrass meadows in Peninsular Malaysia, is not just a natural treasure, it is an ecological life support system. It supports the livelihoods of coastal fishers, contributes to Penang’s food security, and serves as a carbon sink that strengthens climate resilience. Protecting the Middle Bank is not merely a conservation goal, but a social and environmental obligation.

The state’s decision directly contradicts the vision outlined in the Penang2030 agenda, which aspires for Penang to become a “green and smart state that inspires the nation,” with a strong focus on livability, sustainability, and family-friendly development. Delaying or denying protection to Middle Bank in the name of project continuity sends the wrong message to residents, especially those living near Karpal Singh Drive and Jelutong who are already concerned about health, environmental degradation, and broken promises over coastal development.

Residents were never adequately informed about the landfill rehabilitation involving reclamation and the planned construction of a waste-processing facility near their homes, schools, and public spaces. Many feel deceived, and with this recent decision, abandoned.

JEDI calls on the Penang Government to:

The public has spoken. We urge the state to lead with courage, integrity, and vision before the damage is irreversible.