Score Very Good Good Bad Very Bad Marks

(1.00 – 0.75) (0.74 – 0.50) (0.49 – 0.25) (0.24 – 0)

Introduction Introduction Introduction does a Introduction Introduction is all
(15%) sets up the decent effort to give does not over the place, and
A4 – case very a background to the convincingly there is no proper
Organizing nicely, leading case presented. set forth its case set up to
Values the reader into A3 case. speak of
its arguments A2 A1
very
convincingly
A4
Content Content is Content is Content Content leaves
(40%) packed with excellent, but the leaves much much to be desired,
meaning, analytical to be desired, probably quoted
C4 - Analysis containing component is and analysis is verbatim from a
critical lacking, which does weak mainstream source
analyses not hit with C2 C1
which opens a immediacy.
whole new C3
world of
understanding
C4
Connectivity Ideas mesh Ideas are Ideas are Ideas are all over
of Ideas very well and connected, but dissonant, and the place, and no
(15%) create a new sometimes go off do not blend effort is made to
paradigm the path well connect them
C4 - Analysis C4 C3 C2 C1

Grammar/Lan The whole While the piece is The essay The grammar and
guage piece speaks overall coherent, tends to language is chaotic.
(15%) with great sometimes the ramble, C2
eloquence, reader is jarred with sometimes
C5 - with no an occasional offering a brief
Synthesis misunderstand incoherence glimpse of
ing C4 understanding
C5 C3
Conclusion The The conclusion is The The essay has no
(10%) conclusion is well written, but conclusion is proper conclusion
written with there exist some not written well to speak of.
A4 – great care, uncertainty vis-à-vis at all, and the A1
Organizing and a unity of certain points made essay
Values understanding earlier in the essay languishes in
and meaning A3 abrupt
is presented to discontinuity
the reader A2
A4
References References References are References There is almost no
(5%) are properly mostly properly and reference reference material
cited, and cited and only a few formatting to speak of.
A4 reference mistakes can be contain A1
format is found in the various
rigorously reference format noticeable
adhered to. A3 mistakes.
A4 A2

TOTAL
SCHOOL OF INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY

SEMESTER II

ACADEMIC SESSION 22/23

IEK 217: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

INDIVIDUAL ESSAY

PREPARED BY: TAN YUEN YI

MATRIC NUMBER: 157601

PREPARED TO: DR. JAPARENG LALUNG

 The Penang South Reclamation Project is a large-scale development initiative
taking place in Penang, Malaysia. It involves the creation of man-made islands through
land reclamation along the southern coast of Penang Island. The project aims to cater to
various needs, including residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation
infrastructure. However, the Penang South Reclamation Project has been a topic of
heated debate, as proponents argue for its economic benefits while critics express
concerns about its environmental impact. (Controversial Penang Reclamation Project
Downsized from 3 Islands to 1, n.d.) In this essay, I will present a compelling argument
against proceeding with the Penang South Reclamation Project, drawing upon the
findings of its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report. The EIA report provides
valuable insights into the potential environmental consequences of the project, which
form the basis for my opposition to its continuation.
The Penang South Reclamation Project is expected to give rise to significant
environmental concerns that cannot be overlooked. The findings of the Environmental
Impact Assessment (EIA) report highlight the foremost issue, which is the extensive
dredging and land reclamation activities involved. These activities have the potential to
cause irreversible damage to marine ecosystems and delicate coastal habitats. Coral
reefs, often referred to as the rainforests of the sea, are especially susceptible to
sedimentation, pollution, and physical destruction. (Ghazali, 2006) These reefs serve as
crucial habitats for countless species and play a vital role in maintaining the overall
health of the marine ecosystem. The loss of coral reefs because of the project would
disrupt the intricate balance of marine life and lead to a decline in the region's
biodiversity. The destruction of coastal habitats, including mangrove forests, carries far-
reaching consequences. Mangroves act as natural buffers against storms, protecting
coastal areas from erosion and serving as important breeding grounds for marine
species. Their destruction would leave Penang more vulnerable to natural disasters and
threaten the livelihoods of local fishing communities who rely on these habitats for their
sustenance and income. (Woo & Zeng, 2020)
Furthermore, the project's impact on marine life extends beyond habitat
destruction. The process of dredging releases sediment and pollutants into the water,
resulting in increased turbidity and reduced water quality. (Albotoush & Tan Shau-
Hwai, 2019) This degradation directly affects marine organisms, particularly fish
populations, which are not only essential for the local fishing industry but also serve as
a vital source of protein for the coastal communities. The loss of fish populations and
the potential collapse of the fishing industry would have severe consequences for the
local economy and the overall well-being of the communities that depend on it.
Besides, the Penang South Reclamation Project presents a significant risk of
worsening the impacts of climate change, as outlined in the EIA report. With the urgent
global need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, undertaking a project that involves
extensive land reclamation, subsequent industrial and urban development, would
contribute to an increase in carbon emissions. (bmedia, 2023) The construction phase
itself entails the use of heavy machinery, transportation of materials, and energy-
intensive activities, all which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Moreover,
the operational phase of the new infrastructure, including industrial facilities,
transportation networks, and residential areas, would continue to generate emissions.
Additionally, the project has the potential to heighten the region's vulnerability
to the consequences of climate change. Rising sea levels, more frequent and intense
storms, and shifting weather patterns pose significant challenges to coastal communities
worldwide. By modifying the coastline and exposing Penang to these climate-related
risks, the project could amplify the region's susceptibility to flooding, erosion, and other
adverse effects.
Apart from the environmental concerns, it is crucial to carefully consider the
social and economic aspects of the Penang South Reclamation Project. The project
raises the potential for the displacement of local communities and the subsequent loss
of their cultural heritage. This displacement can disrupt social cohesion, diminish
community ties, and cause emotional distress for those affected. Furthermore, the
project's attraction of new migrants seeking employment and opportunities could strain
existing infrastructure and public services, leading to issues such as overcrowding,
increased traffic congestion, and insufficient access to essential amenities. (bmedia,
2023)
Moreover, the economic benefits of the project may not be equitably distributed
among the population. There is a need for transparent and inclusive decision-making
processes that ensure the involvement of affected communities and stakeholders. This
would help address concerns about social equity, ensure fair compensation for affected
individuals, and promote sustainable development that benefits the broader population.
(bmedia, 2023)
As conclusion, after conducting a comprehensive analysis of the Environmental
Impact Assessment (EIA) report, it becomes clear that rejecting the Penang South
Reclamation Project is the most responsible and sustainable decision. The potential
harm inflicted upon marine ecosystems, including the loss of coral reefs and coastal
habitats, cannot be justified by short-term economic gains. Moreover, the project's
contribution to climate change and the increased vulnerability of coastal communities
to natural disasters underscore the necessity for an environmentally conscious approach.
Additionally, the potential displacement of local communities and the erosion of
cultural heritage highlight the social implications of such a large-scale endeavour.
In my view, the rejection of the Penang South Reclamation Project is not a
stance against development or progress. Instead, it signifies a dedication to responsible
and sustainable development that upholds the values of environmental stewardship and
social justice. It is imperative to explore alternative paths that prioritize environmental
preservation, social well-being, and long-term sustainability. By doing so, Penang can
serve as a role model for inclusive and sustainable development, fostering a harmonious
relationship between humanity and the environment while securing a prosperous future
for future generations.
References

Albotoush, R., & Tan Shau-Hwai, A. (2019). Evaluating Integrated Coastal Zone

Management efforts in penang Malaysia. Ocean & Coastal Management, 181,

104899. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2019.104899

bmedia. (2023, February 3). Effects of Land Reclamation You Should Be Aware Of. H2Over

Viewers. https://h2overviewers.com/uncategorized/effects-of-land-reclamation-you-

should-be-aware-of/#:~:text=One%20potential%20impact%20of%20land

Controversial Penang reclamation project downsized from 3 islands to 1. (n.d.). CNA.

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/malaysia-penang-south-island-downsize-

reclamation-silicon-democratic-action-party-3481371

Ghazali, N. H. M. (2006b). Coastal erosion and reclamation in Malaysia. Aquatic Ecosystem

Health & Management, 9(2), 237–247. https://doi.org/10.1080/14634980600721474

Woo, J., & Zeng, S. (2020). ANALYSING PENANG, MALAYSIA AND THE REGION

Evaluating the Penang South Reclamation (PSR) Project According to the United

Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. https://penanginstitute.org/wp-

content/uploads/2020/05/Evaluating-the-Penang-South-Reclamation-Project.pdf