FOLLOWING the recurrence of coastal erosion incidents in Batu Ferringhi, the state government has appealed to the Federal government to implement long-term mitigation measures.
State Transport and Infrastructure Committee Chairman, Zairil Khir Johari, highlighted the ongoing efforts of the state government in addressing the issue, including actively engaging with the relevant ministry.
Zairil informed Buletin Mutiara that, as a result of these efforts, the application has been approved under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12), with an allocation of RM61 million allocated for the implementation of long-term coastal erosion mitigation measures.
“As a follow-up, the Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) Malaysia has advertised a tender on Feb 27, for hydrographic survey work covering the coastline from Batu Ferringhi to Tanjung Bungah.
“Physical work is expected to begin in 2026 or 2027.
“While awaiting the implementation of the long-term mitigation plan, the Penang Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) has submitted a request for emergency funding to the DID Malaysia for the installation of sandbags at the affected areas,” Zairil said.
It is learned that the state government had previously proposed 10 priority projects under the Penang Wishlist Module in the MyProject System for the 5th Rolling Plan (RP5) of the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12).
Two of these, were the construction of outfall and coastal erosion prevention structures at Batu Ferringhi and Tanjong Bunga beaches; and the construction of coastal erosion prevention structures at Paramount Fishermen’s Jetty, northeast district, Penang.
Meanwhile, an English daily reported that the Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa, and Golden Sands Resort communications director Datuk Suleiman Tunku Abdul Rahman expressed confidence that the state government’s proactive actions would not only prevent further damage but also enhance the overall guest experience.
“We received numerous comments from our foreign guests.
“However, it is reassuring that the state has taken measures to address the issue. These efforts not only prevent further erosion but also enhance the experience for all our guests.
“The preservation of the beach is crucial, and it is wonderful to know that they are actively working to maintain the beauty and accessibility of Batu Feringghi,” he said, as reported in the English daily.
On a separate matter, Buletin Mutiara reported that the North Coastal Paired Road (NCPR) project, also known as Package One under the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP), will provide an alternative route from Tanjong Bunga to Teluk Bahang.
The project aims to improve connectivity and ease congestion along Penang’s northern coastline while also acting as a catalyst for socio-economic development in Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi