Power to limit tourists lies with clan jetty chiefs'

Power to limit tourists lies with clan jetty chiefs'



Tourists buying souvenirs at Chew Jetty, Pengkalan Weld. - NSTP/Danial Saad

George Town World Heritage Inc (GTWHI), which manages the World Heritage Site here, said clan jetties need to decide what they want in terms of allowing tourists to flock to their homes.

GTWHI general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee says the clan jetty chiefs acted on consensus when they decided to allow residents to set up trinket shops and other businesses to capitalise on the high tourist flow.

She says GTWHI respects their wishes, but if some quarters are not to keen to have too many tourists, they ought to bring it up to their respective clan chiefs.

“GTWHI can’t take over the jetties as it is under the control of the respective clan chiefs.

If they want to limit tourists entering the area, then they have to bring it up to their chiefs.”

Ang says public feedback is welcome as the state government is reviewing its George Town Special Area Plan.

However, as site managers, she says they are obliged to protect the clan jetties, ensure sustainable tourism and ensure the residents’ future generations continue to live there.

“We want their offspring to continue staying there in preserving the intangible culture that is synonymous with George Town.

“So we will do all we can to ensure that the clan jetties continue to be a safe and comfortable place for them to live in.”

Today marks George Town’s 11th anniversary as a World Heritage Site.

Ang adds that the state government has to ensure clean water supply to the homes in the jetties and carry out works to improve the sewerage system.

Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi says the state government understands that residents need to make a living.

“It is not cheap to maintain their homes, so we understand that they need to make an income to help them sustain their living.

“Their shops are not legal as per the zoning of the jetties, which are essentially residential, but we are looking at changing the zoning to set better rules and regulations on operating businesses, including on the types of businesses allowed.”

Gooi says the state will help residents maintain the jetties’ boardwalk, improve the infrastructure and help maintain the houses of those who cannot afford to.

~News courtesy of New Straits Times~