The Star
Putrajaya has in principle agreed not to proceed with the construction of the new Tioman International Airport involving reclamation in Pulau Tioman, says Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.
"The Cabinet meeting has, in principle, agreed not to proceed with the construction of the new Tioman International Airport involving 76% sea reclamation area,” the Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister said in a statement Wednesday (Aug 9).
He said the Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Ministry took note of the worries raised due to reclamation of marine protected areas that will result in the destruction of coral reefs which are important habitats for various species of marine life and are also the main attraction of Tioman Island.
Pulau Tioman, which is gazetted as a marine park, also has natural rainforests and is home to a variety of wildlife species with part of the island designated as a wildlife reserve.
"Although the intention of building a new airport is to attract more tourists, the construction of the new airport will damage the natural attractions of Pulau Tioman, which will lead to unsustainable tourism," said Nik Nazmi.
