Beginning September 1st, horseback riding will be prohibited at Batu Ferringhi beach in Penang. This decision comes as a response to a series of complaints from the public and local businesses regarding the activity.
Jason H'ng Mooi Lye, Chairman of the State Local Government, Town, and Country Development Committee, announced the ban, citing several concerns including safety, cleanliness, and the well-being of the horses.
Photo via The Star
Reports indicate that despite ongoing enforcement efforts, foreign-operated horseback riding services have continued to run on the beach.
Tanjung Bungah assemblyman Zairil Khir Johari, who also chairs the State Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee, revealed that the number of horses on Batu Ferringhi beach has surged from a few to around 30. Many of these horses are reportedly in poor health. “Residents have raised concerns about health issues linked to horse manure, and the horses are housed in village areas,” he noted.
Additional reasons for the ban include the illegal construction of makeshift structures by horseback riding operators. These unauthorised constructions have raised environmental concerns and restricted public access to the beach.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow supported the decision, referencing past efforts to manage water sports activities by designating specific zones. “When I was in charge of Local Government, we allocated the far end of the beach for horse riding to ensure safety,” he explained.
Over time, the activity has spread to other areas of the beach due to inadequate enforcement, leading to disruptions for beachgoers.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the ban aims to better organise activities at the popular beach and that the Penang Island City Council will oversee the situation moving forward.
