Penang CM: Beachline erosion could be due to natural effects and not reclamation

Published by Ian McIntyre • 29/01/2026

THE beachline erosion in Penang could be due to natural effects and not as a result of major reclamation works here, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

He pointed out that the areas most affected were at the Batu Ferringhi tourism belt, which is located some 10km from the major reclamation of the Silicon Island man-made island.

The closest reclamation project to Batu Ferringhi, is the Seri Tanjung Pinang reclamation which is now almost completed.

Chow also pointed out that there was a flood mitigation project done near the Ferringhi Bay, which was suffering from erosion since six to seven years ago.

However, after the river mouth was expanded to increase capacity, the beach stretch at Ferringhi Bay stopped eroding, said Chow.

He said this in response to reports where Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) indicated that the beach erosion could be due to mass reclamation.

“The Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), was finalising its technical study of the phenomenon.

“Authority has granted to consider erecting a seawall near the Rasa Sayang Beach and Spa Resort where the erosion is profound.

“The state is paying its utmost attention to the beach erosion and will do all it can to prevent it,” said Chow.

SAM has consistently blamed extensive land reclamation projects for accelerating coastal erosion and causing severe environmental and socio-economic damage in Penang.

The pioneering activist on the environment, has flagged multiple projects, particularly the Silicon Island and developments near the Penang Channel, as key contributors to the destruction of coastal resources and the erosion of beaches. – January 29, 2026.