Kampung Huma Residents Demand Prompt Action Over Worsening Coastal Erosion

SUNGAI PETANI, July 15 (Bernama) -- Residents of Kampung Huma, Tanjung Dawai, are urging the authorities to take immediate action to address the worsening coastal erosion, which is feared to pose a risk to their safety.

Salmah Abdul Rahman, 73, who has been living in the village for over 40 years, saidthe plot of land behind her house was once open space used for farming.

“I used to grow cassava, sweet potatoes, sugarcane and bananas, but these past few years the sea has been rising and is now close to the kitchen of my house.

“Whenever big waves hit, they bring water and sand into the house, even at night. I have to draw the water out before it starts pooling,” she told Bernama when met at her home here today.

Salmah, who lives with her 40-year-old son, said she had to remain alert at all times, especially when big waves struck, and hoped the relevant authorities would take immediate action to resolve the issue.

Rosminah Ahmad, 53, who lives with her elderly mother, Jamaliah Ishak, 83, said she felt deeply worried as the sea continued to creep closer to their house.

“The sea is now only about two to three metres away. The erosion is getting worse...last Sunday was the worst we’ve seen this year.

“The water didn’t enter the house at the time because it’s built on higher ground, but it was pooling around the house. That’s why I really hope they can build a concrete retaining wall soon to stop the waves from eroding the land,” she said.

Another resident, Suhaida Abu Hasan, 44, said the coastal erosion near the residents’ homes appeared to be getting more serious.

“My sister-in-law had to move out after the back of her house collapsed when big waves hit in September last year.

“My house is not far from theirs, so I really hope the construction of the retaining wall can be expedited for the safety of residents here,” she said.

Meanwhile, Kampung Sungai Pial Village Head Council (MKK) Ahmad Fauzi Othman said around 30 houses in the area were at risk due to coastal erosion.

“Over the past five to six months, the situation has become more critical. Many senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and people with chronic illnesses live here,” he said.

“Four months ago, a 60-metre concrete wall was built, but it only reduced the impact on five houses. Many others are still at risk,” he said.

He added that the authorities must act quickly to prevent any untoward incidents, given the current unpredictable weather and the approaching monsoon season.

Last Sunday, Bernama reported that the Kedah Fire and Rescue Department had advised the public, particularly those in coastal areas, to remain vigilant following reports of large waves off Tanjung Dawai beach.

A video capturing large waves in Kampung Huma, Tanjung Dawai, recently went viral, sparking concern among netizens as the waves were seen hitting areas close to residents’ homes.

--BERNAMA