Port Dickson beaches cleared of canopies to restore image

The putting up of pasar malam-like blue canopies along beach stretches in Port Dickson has earned the wrath of holiday makers who claim this denied them access to public areas. - Filepic

PORT DICKSON: The decision to remove the blue pasar-malam style canopies from the beaches here is to restore Port Dickson's image as a premier beach destination, says state executive councillor J. Arul Kumar.

The state local government development, housing, and transportation committee chairman said the Port Dickson Municipal Council (MPPD) had to take drastic action following numerous complaints from beachgoers.

"The MPPD had discussions with the traders who have been setting up these canopies for some time, seeking an amicable solution.

"We will soon provide designated spots where they can install these canopies, and this time it will be done according to our rules," he said when contacted.

Arul was commenting on a move by the MPPD ordering traders to stop erecting the canopies from Nov 18.

A notice signed by MPPD president Hasnor Abd Hamid has since gone viral.

In the notice, Hasnor said the haphazard setup of canopies had tarnished the image of the resort town as a top tourist destination.

He added that some traders had worsened the situation by chasing away beachgoers from public areas.

Hasnor said that apart from Pantai Telok Kemang, such activities would also be banned at Pantai Tanjung Biru and Pantai Cermin.

If they continue these activities, they will violate Section 46 of the Streets, Drainage, and Building Act 1974.

The MPPD, he said, would seize canopies, tables, chairs, or any other related items if the traders continued to violate the rule.

In recent years, social media has been flooded with complaints from beachgoers about traders dominating public areas with canopies, with some saying the resort town resembled a pasar tani.

Many have shared stories of being forced to vacate public areas by traders claiming ownership of such spots.

They claimed they were required to pay an average of RM50 for a canopy with a table and a few chairs.

Those driving along Jalan Pantai have also often complained about how these structures blocked their view of the beautiful beaches, insisting traders had no right to do so.

Many traders erecting these tents are involved in other beach and tourism-related businesses.

Arul Kumar said some traders failed to observe a previous understanding with the authorities, where they were told they could only set up the tents if beachgoers requested them.

These tents also had to be dismantled immediately once renters left.

Arul Kumar said there were 44 traders operating along Pantai Telok Kemang alone, and the MPPD will soon announce details on where they can operate along the stretch.

"We do not want to make it difficult for them as we plan to legalise their businesses.

"At the same time, we must also protect beachgoers and ensure they have access to public areas," he said, adding that traders cannot continue to dominate the beach stretches as this would drive tourists away.