Although activities can resume on islands off Mersing, the authorities will continue to keep a close watch on weather forecasts. — Filepic
ACTIVITIES such as island hopping in Mersing waters have been given the green light to operate after being put on hold since last month due to the monsoon season.
Mersing district officer Mohammed Shakib Ali said previously, only ferries were allowed to transport workers to various resorts located at several islands near the coast of Mersing.
Mohammed Shakib says the district council will be guided by updates from the Marine Department and MetMalaysia.
“All activities involving the sea including island-hopping can resume, but it will depend on Malaysian Meteorological Depart-ment (MetMalaysia) weather updates as part of our safety measures to safeguard lives,” he said when contacted by StarMetro.
Mohammed Shakib added that the Mersing District Council has opened applications for operators to start island-hopping activities, which is one of the key tourism activities in the area.
He said such activities could resume but the authorities would keep a close watch on updates from MetMalaysia and the Marine Department.
“I have received feedback from the Marine Department where they allow ferry and island hopping but it depends on the weather forecast.
“If MetMalaysia forecasts that the weather conditions are classified as category two or three, which is dangerous, then passenger boats or ferries will not be allowed to leave the jetty,” he added.
Mohammed Shakib urged those wanting to visit the islands during the festive season to be vigilant and adhere to instructions given by the authorities.
Since Dec 14 last year, tourism activities such as island hopping and hiking in Mersing were put on hold due to the monsoon season. — By MOHD FARHAAN SHAH
