TWO Penang-based youth community groups, namely Generasi Penang and Penggerak Komuniti Muda Pulau Pinang (Peka), have urged the public to stop vandalising the World War II pillbox that is located at Permatang Damar Laut.
According to a joint statement issued by both groups, they advised the public to be more appreciative as the historical structure is part of state’s history.
“This is important as the historical relic also is believed to be built by the British to guard the southern front of the Penang Island around the time of the World War II.
“Since then, the pillbox has been left unattended and has partly sunk into the sand and vandalised with spray paint.
“Thus, we also would like to urge the relevant authorities and government agencies to preserve the relic from any vandalism activity and build up a protective fence around it to prevent further erosion from the sea wave during high tide,” the statement said today.
The joint statement also added that both the youth groups also have cleaned up the abandoned pillbox today.
“The pillbox cleaning programme, which was participated by 30 youth volunteers, began at 8am and ended by noon.
“Although most of the vandalised sections have been cleared, some spray-painted spots still remain as we have run out of graffiti remover.
“At the same time, we also hope the authorities will open up an access road so that the public can visit and appreciate the artifact from Penang’s historical past,” added the statement.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix courtesy of Penggerak Komuniti Muda Pulau Pinang