KOTA BARU: Villagers living along three beaches here are relieved that serious erosion issues they have been facing over the decades are finally solved.
This is after the government implemented a RM37.5 million rehabilitation project last year to buttress some 5km of Pantai Cahaya Bulan (PCB), Pantai Mek Mas and Pantai Pulau Kundur.
Villager Raja Faizuddin Raja Sulaiman said that prior to this, nearly 400 people living along the beaches were concerned over their future due to rapid erosion.
"Many suffered losses after their homes were destroyed by high waves and strong winds when the monsoon arrived annually.
"However, since last year, no such damage had occurred, particularly during the monsoon season," said the 47-year-old businessman.
Another villager, Fauzi Hussin, 54, thanked the government for its help.
"Previously, many of us were sleepless, as we were afraid that high tide would crash into our homes.
"Praise be to God... we did not suffer any more losses, nor are we faced with the nightmare," he said.
The rehabilitation project involved the implementation of the “beach nourishment” and “rock revetment” systems.
PCB's rehabilitation project covered 3km and cost about RM20 million; with the remainder of the funds allocated for Pantai Mek Mah and Pantai Pulau Kundur.