THREE major flood mitigation projects are currently underway in the north, south, and central Seberang Perai districts to upgrade coastal bunds and related infrastructure.
These initiatives, led by the state Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID), aim to strengthen coastal defences and prevent flooding in key areas.
State DID director Mohd Nazri Yasmin highlighted that the RM12.14 million projects were approved by the Federal Government under Rolling Plan Three (RP3) of the Eleventh Malaysia Plan (11MP). The works involve the coastal areas of Bagan Ajam (1.5km), Mak Minah Beach in Juru (4km), and Byram Beach in Muara Sungai Kerian, Nibong Tebal (2.3km).
“These projects commenced earlier this year and are expected to be completed between 2025 and 2026,” Mohd Nazri told Buletin Mutiara during a site visit with Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow in Bagan Ajam today.
“For the Bagan Ajam coastal area, the project, costing RM8.87 million, started on March 20 this year and is expected to be completed by March 19, 2026. Its current progress is at 28%.
“As for the coastal area of Mak Minah Beach, the project started on April 26 this year and is expected to be completed by Aug 25, 2025. The project cost is RM1.6 million, with progress at 34%.
“Meanwhile for Byram Beach in Muara Sungai Kerian, the project, valued at RM1.66 million, started on March 20 this year and is expected to be completed by Sept 19, 2025, with current progress at 31%,” he said.
Also present were Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid and Lingkaran Luar Butterworth (Penang) Sdn Bhd general manager (operations) Fadzilah Taib.
Chow said these projects are crucial in preventing coastal flooding, protecting infrastructure from damage, and mitigating coastal erosion during high tides.
“In addition to upgrading the coastal bunds, other related infrastructure works include rock revetment upgrades, the construction of training walls, and groins. We are also seeking further allocations from the Federal Government to implement similar projects in other vulnerable coastal areas across the state.
“We also thank state DID for their efforts to ensure the implementation of these three important projects along the coastal areas,” said Chow.
Mohd Nazri further mentioned that the state DID is applying for an additional RM21 million from the Federal Government to undertake a beach nourishment programme at Batu Ferringhi to prevent further erosion.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Ahmad Adil Muhamad