Posted on May 4, 2026
GEORGE TOWN: Penang is rolling out long-term and immediate mitigation projects worth millions of ringgit to combat worsening coastal erosion.
State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said while coastal erosion remained a seasonal phenomenon similar to 10 or 20 years ago, its severity had escalated.
“Previously, affected coastal areas would typically undergo natural recovery after the monsoon season.
“However, although the seasonal cycle still occurs, the impacts have become more aggressive,” he told the New Straits Times.
Zairil said rising sea levels and high tides exceeding 2.7m had accelerated shoreline retreat, resulting in the collapse of long-established coastal trees.
The worst-affected area is Batu Ferringhi, where erosion is encroaching on beachfront hotels.
Zairil said the state government has measures in the pipeline, including an approved RM61 million long-term mitigation project under the 12th Malaysia Plan.
The project, covering Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah, includes the construction of outfalls and coastal protection structures. A consultant is expected to be appointed by July.
Meanwhile, Zairil said Pantai Bersih was under control but continued to be monitored.
He said a RM12.6 million coastal protection project in Bagan Ajam, completed on Jan 30, has helped stabilise the coastline. Another project in Bagan Lebai Tahir, estimated at RM10 million, is at the land surveyor appointment stage.
On immediate action, Zairil said sandbags were being installed at higher levels as temporary barriers at erosion hotspots, including beachfront areas near Rasa Sayang Resort, Golden Sands Resort and Lone Pine Hotel.
“For long-term solutions, a comprehensive mitigation plan involving coastal outfalls, wave breakers and beach nourishment is underway, pending finalisation of detailed designs.
“The Integrated Shoreline Management Plan (ISMP) for Penang, the state’s key coastal management blueprint, is under review and expected to be completed by June 23, 2027,” he said.
Zairil said the primary causes of erosion were natural factors, such as strong winds, big waves, heavy rainfall and high tides, which were amplified by climate change.
He said land reclamation was not the main cause, as affected sites were located more than 10km from reclamation zones.
On environmental impact, he said erosion was leading to the loss of coastal vegetation and wildlife habitats, reducing biodiversity and weakening natural coastal defences.
“If coastal erosion continues, the sea will gradually move closer to buildings such as hotels and homes, increasing the risk of damage to infrastructure.
“Over time, beaches will shrink further and some areas may lose their natural shoreline, affecting Penang’s tourism and natural beauty,” he said.
