Batu rakit: A Kampung Pantai resident could only watch helplessly as his ancestral home was destroyed by strong waves. The 80-year-old house, built by his late grandfather, had long been a cherished gathering place for Zamri Sulong’s family during holidays and festive seasons.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, severe erosion over the years had worsened the situation, eventually destroying the entire structure a few days ago. Zamri recounted that the damage occurred gradually. Initially, he repaired and extended the living room to accommodate family gatherings. However, over the past three years, the erosion intensified to the point where the house could no longer be saved. Consequently, Zamri moved out and rented another house in September, with assistance from the Terengganu Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIDAM).

Another resident, Mat Yusoff Abdullah, 73, shared his concerns about living so close to the shoreline, which is only about 10 metres from his home. During the monsoon season, he and his family live in constant fear of being swept away by the waves, often staying awake through the night. Many residents have already moved out as their homes were destroyed, and Mat Yusoff is contemplating the same but lacks alternatives. He expressed hope that the government will act swiftly to prevent further erosion, fearing that if the problem persists, Kampung Pantai might vanish from the map.