Travel @ AsiaOne

Erosion threatens Malaysian beach resort

Shoreline is now barely 20 metres from the Rompin resort's south wing units. -NST

Mon, Dec 08, 2008
New Straits Times

ROMPIN, MALAYSIA: A favourite spot for holiday makers and a paradise for nature lovers, Summerset Resort in Rompin, Pahang, is losing its allure.

The eight-year-old resort in Pahang, overlooking the South China Sea, is facing a serious threat from the erosion of the beach. And unit owners fear that eventually their vacation homes will no longer be safe.

Members of the Summerset Joint Management Body (JMB) on Saturday said they hoped the state government would step in to stop further damage to the beach and the nearby mangrove swamp.

Kong Kar Loong said when the units were handed to them in early 2000, the shoreline was about 60 metres away.

"Now it is barely 20 metres from the south wing units, and I can't imagine what will happen if nothing is done.
"The beach began to erode in 2003, and about four metres disappear every year."

Dr Mohd Daud Yahaya hoped the state government would do something before tourists stop visiting and tourism revenue was affected.

The JMB representatives took the New Straits Times on a tour of the area. Several casuarina trees less than 15 metres from the building were uprooted. And where the hotel's multi-purpose hall once stood, there remained only the concrete footings.

"I have heard there are plans to make Summerset a world-class eco-friendly resort. I hope the state government will find a solution to prevent the erosion from causing more damage," said Dr Daud.

Top photo: The beach at Summerset Resort in Rompin faces a serious threat of erosion.

 
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