BALIK PULAU: For years, fishermen and boat operators in Teluk Bahang braved a wobbly wooden jetty that creaked with every high tide.
The old jetty near the Teluk Bahang National Park entrance had stood for over five decades and become so weather-worn that walking felt like a balancing act, especially after rough seas loosened its planks.
The rickety structure has been replaced by a concrete jetty at a cost of RM5.5mil, giving the coastal village a safer and revitalised gateway for eco-tourism and fishing activities.
Tour operator Suraya Maulana, 57, said the new structure also enhanced the area’s image as one of Penang’s key nature gateways.
“This is what we have been hoping for.
“The previous jetty was unsafe, especially at high tide. Now even the elderly and children can board boats easily.”
Suraya said the modern jetty can accommodate the growing number of visitors to the park, especially during weekends and school holidays.
Tour boat operator Saleh Din, 57, said the new jetty has made a big difference to those who depended on the sea for their livelihood.
“Before this, we had to be extra careful when boarding passengers, especially when the tide was low or the waves were strong. The old jetty was narrow and slippery,” he said.
Saleh has been operating boat services to Pantai Kerachut and Monkey Beach for over two decades.
“With proper facilities, more visitors will come and this means better income for local guides, boat operators and petty traders around her.”
Resident Kek Chai Hoon, 62, praised the upgrade and appealed to visitors to help preserve the park’s condition by being responsible.
“The new jetty looks strong and well-built. It gives confidence to both locals and visitors who use it daily.
“We are happy to see improvements like this, but it is equally important that all play their part to keep the environment clean and safe.”
Jessica Estrada, 47, a tourist from Spain, said the structure made her trip to the park more comfortable and efficient, especially when boarding boats to nearby attractions such as Pantai Kerachut and Monkey Beach.
“I have been here a few times and the difference is very noticeable,” she said.
Balik Pulau MP Datuk Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik, who initiated the project when he was Deputy Tourism, Culture and Arts Minister in 2020, said the facility will serve as a catalyst for eco-tourism in the area.
“After six years of waiting, I’m relieved that the jetty has finally been completed with a brand new look. It will certainly add value and bring much relief to boat operators and visitors.”
He hopes the relevant authorities will ensure proper maintenance of the jetty and its surroundings.
“The jetty is not just an infrastructure project, it represents our collective image as an eco-tourism destination.
“Cleanliness and upkeep must be a shared effort between the authorities, operators and visitors,” he added.
