Port Dickson is one of the most famous tourist spots in the country, especially for those who wanted a short getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. This also makes it a good spot for small businesses like canopy rentals to thrive.
However, the beautiful view of the coastline was ruined after traders set up their canopies indiscriminately in an attempt to “monopolise” stretches of the beach.
According to The Star, the canopies’ manager in Teluk Kemang beach in Port Dickson have been found to have violated the rules and regulations set by the City Council of Port Dickson (MPPD), where they had put up more canopies allowed by the local council.
“However, when they saw huge crowds turning up during the Chinese New Year and school holidays, they broke their promise and put up tents everywhere,” Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said in a press conference.
He added that he was aware that many visitors were upset by this and described how the spot looks like a pasar tani (farmer market) rather than a beach.
According to some visitors who were interviewed by Berita Harian, Aisyah said, “We got there in the morning, laid our mats in a strategic location to enjoy the panoramic view but we were instructed to move to another location because it’s where they put their canopies up.”
Another visitor, Johar said “Not everyone is able to afford to rent a whole canopy, and we’re only there for a couple of hours the most. The view was picturesque, but we can’t even see our own kids playing in the water because of the tents.”
Meanwhile, Aminuddin said they will understand the situation for both sides and they won’t deny the rights of the canopies’ manager of seeing an opportunity and making a business out of it, especially during the pandemic.
However, at the same time, they are listening to the complaints and stern action will be taken if the rules and regulations are violated again.
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