Kuala Lumpur: Three projects valued at RM182.5 million have been sanctioned under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) as comprehensive measures to address the worsening coastal erosion in Terengganu, announced Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Fadillah, who also serves as the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, highlighted that the projects include the Coastal Erosion Control Project at Kuala Nerus beach, with an allocation of RM69.91 million, as well as similar initiatives at Geliga, Kemaman, and Kuala Paka, Dungun.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Kuala Nerus beach project is currently underway, having commenced on July 24, 2023, and is slated for completion by September 23, 2026, with a current progress status of 22.3 percent. The primary focus of this project involves the construction of 16 offshore breakwater structures from Telipot to Sungai Gong Tuan Nit, along with beach nourishment efforts extending over two kilometers.
During a session at Dewan Negara, Fadillah responded to Senator Che Alias Hamid’s inquiry concerning long-term solutions for the ongoing coastal erosion that is damaging coastal roads in Terengganu. Fadillah noted that two additional projects remain in the pre-implementation phase, with plans to construct coastal erosion control structures, including beach sand nourishment and breakwater features. Physical construction for these projects is anticipated to begin in early 2027.
In response to a supplementary question by Che Alias regarding collaboration between central and state governments, Fadillah emphasized the necessity of close cooperation for the successful execution of these projects. He explained the challenges posed by the monsoon season, which exacerbates coastal erosion, leading to land loss that requires quick disposal by the state government to facilitate project implementation.
To address these challenges, Fadillah proposed the formation of an action committee, co-chaired by himself and the Menteri Besar of Terengganu, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar. This committee aims to discuss and expedite the project’s progress.