5.

0 Environment Assessment (Hakimi)

 Introduction

Coastal regions represent a delicate balance between diverse ecosystems and human
habitation. These areas are not only rich in biodiversity, encompassing unique flora
and fauna, but also serve as vital economic and cultural hubs for surrounding
communities. However, the escalating threat of erosion poses a significant risk to the
stability and sustainability of these coastal environments. The pressing need to
address this challenge has spurred the development of strategies, such as armor units,
aimed at mitigating erosion impacts while preserving these delicate ecosystems.
In response to this urgency, this comprehensive environmental assessment seeks to
meticulously examine and understand the intricate web of interactions within the
coastal ecosystem. Through a multidimensional approach integrating ecological,
socio-economic, and fisheries assessments, this study aims to provide a thorough
analysis of the existing environmental conditions. By delving into the dynamics of
coastal vegetation, aquatic and herpetofauna, socio-economic intricacies, and various
fisheries practices, this assessment endeavors to lay the groundwork for informed
decision-making in the development and deployment of erosion control measures.

 Objective of Environmental Assessment

Comprehensive Analysis of Coastal Vegetation: Conduct an extensive survey to

identify, map, and categorize the diverse range of coastal vegetation. Assess their
distribution patterns, ecological significance in erosion prevention, and vulnerability
to environmental stressors.

In-depth Study of Aquatic Fauna and Herpetofauna: Undertake a detailed examination

of the aquatic fauna and herpetofauna, focusing on species diversity, habitats, and
their interdependencies within the coastal ecosystem. Evaluate their roles in
ecosystem health and resilience.

Holistic Socio-Economic Assessment: Investigate the socio-economic fabric of the

communities reliant on coastal resources. Explore livelihoods, cultural ties, economic
activities, and vulnerabilities associated with environmental changes.
 Thorough Evaluation of Fisheries Practices: Analyze the marine capture fishery,
inland fisheries, aquaculture, and recreational fisheries. Assess their sustainability,
impacts on biodiversity, and contributions to local economies.

Identification of Ecological Interdependencies and Threats: Uncover the intricate

relationships between human activities and the coastal environment. Identify potential
stressors, such as pollution or habitat destruction, and assess their implications on
ecosystem integrity.
Data-Driven Approach for Armor Unit Design: Generate a comprehensive dataset
integrating ecological, socio-economic, and fisheries findings. Use this information to
inform the design and implementation of erosion-control armor units that effectively
safeguard the coastline while preserving ecological balance.

 Existing environment condition

Similar to other coastal shorelines, the hydrodynamics of the Kuah shoreline are
intricate, susceptible to alterations due to wind, waves, tides, and currents. It receives
water from Sg. Menghulu and Sg. Kuah along its eastern and southern boundaries.
The region is notably impacted by the northeast monsoon, prevailing from November
to March, often resulting in rainfall of up to 600mm/month. Conversely, the
southwest monsoon, occurring from May to September, brings approximately
80mm/month along with inter-monsoon winds. The salinity along this shoreline varies
widely, ranging from zero to near-sea levels, influenced by prevailing weather
conditions, river inflow, and tidal patterns. Significant variations in depth and location
along the shoreline lead to diverse habitats, influencing the flora, fauna, and fisheries.
The depths along the Kuah wetland shoreline range between 1.8-3.0 m, with much of
the area being shallower than 2.0 m, resulting in varied habitats affecting the
ecological systems along this stretch of coast.

- Coastal Vegetation
A. Mangroves

A substantial portion of the shoreline within the inland lagoon is predominantly

covered by mangrove vegetation, observed in Sg. Menghulu, Sg. Kuah, Sg. Kilim and
throughout the entire shoreline area. The estimated total area occupied by mangroves
is huge. The flora within these mangrove forests can be categorized into true
mangroves and mangrove associates based on their physiological and ecological
adaptability to the saline environment. True mangroves thrive specifically within
mangrove settings, while mangrove associates can exist both in mangrove
environments and other land habitats..

The fringe of mangrove vegetation along the coastal area significantly serves as vital
nursery and feeding grounds for commercially valuable fish and prawns. Mangroves
are well-utilized by various species, from fry to sub-adult stages of milkfish (Chanos
chanos) and some penaeid prawns. Additionally, sought-after species like grouper
(Epinephelus spp.), seabass (Lates calcarifer), snapper (Lutjanus spp.), and other
smaller fishes, crucial as food sources, depend on mangroves as nursery habitats.
Their role in maintaining nearshore marine integrity profoundly impacts the nearby
fisheries. Furthermore, mangroves indirectly benefit ecosystems by protecting
coastlines from storm surges, preventing erosion, stabilizing shorelines, mitigating
flood impacts, filtering nutrients, and preventing saline intrusion

Figure 1.1:Pokok Api-Api Figure 1.2: Pokok Bakau

(Avicennia sp) Minyak(Rizophora)
 Figure 1.3: Pokok Berembang
(Sonneratia coesiolaris)

B. Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) Park

Chogm Park in Kuah, Langkawi, is a picturesque public space nestled in the heart of
the town. This park, named after the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting
(CHOGM), offers a serene retreat amidst the bustling urban landscape.

Features of Chogm Park:

Scenic Landscaping: The park boasts well-manicured gardens, meandering pathways,

and lush greenery. Its picturesque setting invites visitors to relax, stroll, or simply
enjoy the tranquil ambiance.

Central Location: Situated in Kuah town, Chogm Park serves as a convenient stop for
locals and tourists exploring the area. Its accessibility makes it a favored spot for
leisure activities and a gathering place for community events.
Waterfront Views: With its location near the waterfront, the park provides glimpses of
Langkawi's coastal beauty. Visitors can enjoy views of the sea while indulging in a
peaceful atmosphere.

Recreational Amenities: The park offers amenities such as benches, shaded areas, and
open spaces, making it suitable for picnics, reading, or simply unwinding amidst
nature.

Cultural Significance: As a tribute to the CHOGM meeting, the park might

incorporate symbolic elements or installations commemorating the event, adding a
touch of historical and cultural significance.
Chogm Park stands as a tranquil oasis in Kuah, Langkawi, providing a green escape
for visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty, relax, and immerse themselves in the town's
ambiance.

Figure 2: CHOGM Park, greenspace in Kuah, Langkawi

C. Beach Vegetation (Rhu, Casuarinas)

Casuarinas (Casuarina equisetifolia) are prominently found along the Kuah coastline
in Langkawi. This tree species, resembling pines, thrives in coastal margins, forming
open stands. With shallow roots that foster nitrogen production through microbial
associations, casuarinas can flourish in nutrient-poor soils, including granite outcrops
and sandy terrains. Consequently, these forests often maintain a modest height and
feature dense shrubby undergrowth. Along Kuah's coastline, Rhu (Casuarina
equisetifolia) forms a significant strand, intermixed with typical coastal vegetation.
Renowned for providing wind protection and shade, these trees serve as vital barriers.
Hence, both the Forestry Department of Peninsular Malaysia and NGOs like WWF-
Malaysia actively engage in planting young casuarina trees along the coastline to
preserve and enhance this coastal vegetation.

Figure 3: Rhu, Casuarinas

- Endangered Flora and Fauna

A. Molluscs
The rare-spined murex, scientifically known as Murex aduncospinosus, is a striking marine
gastropod characterized by its intricate shell adorned with elaborate spines. This shell species
is highly sought after and prized by shell collectors and enthusiasts due to its rarity and
aesthetic appeal. The murex's shell features a sophisticated pattern of raised, pointed spines,
creating a visually captivating and intricate design. Typically found in tropical and
subtropical waters, these mollusks inhabit sandy or rocky seabeds, where they feed on small
invertebrates. The rare-spined murex's scarcity in the wild has led to conservation concerns,
prompting efforts to protect its habitats and regulate collection to ensure its preservation for
future generations.

Conversely, the bailer shell, also known as the Melo amphora or the Indian volute, is a
distinctive sea snail recognized for its large, thick, and robust shell with a glossy surface.
These shells often exhibit a striking orange or reddish-brown hue, and their size can be quite
impressive, making them a sought-after item in shell collections. Bailer shells are found in
warmer waters, including the Indian Ocean and parts of the Pacific. They inhabit sandy or
muddy substrates, preying on other mollusks and small crustaceans. Due to their appealing
appearance and size, bailer shells have faced overcollection, leading to conservation
concerns. Efforts to regulate harvesting and raise awareness about the importance of
preserving these shells and their habitats have been undertaken to safeguard their populations.
B. Mammal

Figure 4.2: Trachypithecus obscurus

carbo

Trachypithecus obscurus carbo, a subspecies of the Dusky Leaf Monkey or

Spectacled Langur, is known for its distinctive appearance and behaviors. It is an
endangered species that hold significant ecological importance.

Habitat and Behavior:

Trachypithecus obscurus carbo typically thrives in coastal areas, mangroves, and

forests adjacent to water bodies. Their presence in Kuah, Langkawi, would imply the
existence of suitable habitats within the region.

Endangered Status:

As endangered in Kuah, Langkawi, this subspecies would signal critical

environmental concerns, potentially linked to habitat destruction, human
encroachment, or other threats.

Conservation Efforts:

Protecting an endangered species like Trachypithecus obscurus carbo in Kuah,

Langkawi, would necessitate urgent conservation actions. Preserving their habitat,
implementing strict conservation regulations, and involving local communities in
conservation efforts would be crucial.

Ecotourism and Awareness:

The presence of an endangered species could stimulate ecotourism initiatives,

promoting responsible wildlife observation and educational programs. This approach
could raise awareness about conservation needs and foster appreciation for the local
biodiversity.

Research and Monitoring:

Comprehensive research and monitoring programs would likely be initiated to study

their behavior, habitat preferences, and population dynamics. These efforts would aid
in implementing targeted conservation strategies.

Protecting an endangered species like Trachypithecus obscurus carbo in Kuah,

Langkawi, would signify the importance of preserving biodiversity and ensuring the
survival of unique and threatened species within the region's ecosystems.

C. Flora

Figure 4.3: Amorphophallus

paeoniifolius

i) Elephant Foot Yam (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius):

Description: The Elephant Foot Yam is a tropical tuberous plant known for its large
underground tuber resembling an elephant's foot, hence the name.

Cultivation: It's cultivated for its edible tubers in various parts of Asia and Africa,
where it's used in culinary dishes after proper cooking to remove toxins.

Nutritional Value: Rich in carbohydrates and dietary fiber, it's a staple in some
cuisines and is valued for its nutritional content.

Medicinal Uses: In traditional medicine, parts of the plant are used for various
purposes, including treating digestive issues and inflammation.

Figure 4.4: Prain's Amorphophallus

ii) Amorphophallus prainii (Prain's Amorphophallus):

Description: Amorphophallus prainii is a species of flowering plant known for its

striking inflorescence, often producing a large, unique flower structure.

Habitat: Native to certain regions of India and Nepal, it grows in forested areas and is
part of the Amorphophallus genus, which includes diverse species known for their
unusual flowers.
Life Cycle: It typically goes through a dormancy period, sprouting leaves and flowers
during specific seasons.

Cultural Significance: Some species in the Amorphophallus genus hold cultural

significance in local traditions and are sometimes cultivated for ornamental purposes.

Figure 4.5: Calliandra haematocephala

iii) Scarlett Powder-Puff (Calliandra haematocephala):

Description: The Scarlett Powder-Puff is a flowering shrub known for its vibrant red
or crimson puffball-like flowers.

Appearance: The flowers are composed of numerous stamens, giving them a powder-
puff appearance, and are attractive to pollinators like butterflies and bees.

Habitat: Native to South America, it's also cultivated in other tropical and subtropical
regions as an ornamental plant due to its showy flowers.

Landscaping: Often used in landscaping for its eye-catching blooms and its ability to
attract wildlife, it's valued for its aesthetic appeal in gardens and landscapes.

Each of these plants holds unique characteristics, whether they're valued for their
edible parts, ornamental features, or their ecological roles in attracting pollinators and
contributing to biodiversity.

D. Birds
i) Parrots:

Figure 4.6: Parrots

Description: Parrots are colorful, intelligent birds known for their vibrant plumage,
strong curved bills, and the ability to mimic sounds.

Habitat: Found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, they inhabit forests,
savannas, and even urban areas.

Behavior: Highly social and often seen in flocks, parrots exhibit complex behaviors,
including vocal communication, social bonding, and tool usage.

Diet: Their diet primarily consists of fruits, nuts, seeds, flowers, and sometimes
insects.

ii) Hornbills:
 Figure 4.7: Hornbills

Description: Hornbills are large birds known for their distinctive casque—a hollow
structure on top of their bills—and often brightly colored or patterned plumage.

Habitat: Found in forests and woodland areas across Africa and Asia, they occupy
diverse habitats from lowlands to mountains.

Behavior: Hornbills are known for their unique nesting behavior, often sealing
themselves inside tree cavities during the breeding season.

Diet: Their diet includes fruits, insects, small reptiles, and sometimes small mammals.

iii) Hawks:

Figure 4.8: Hawk

 Description: Hawks are birds of prey known for their sharp beaks, keen eyesight, and
powerful flight.

Habitat: Found in various habitats across the world, including forests, grasslands,
deserts, and urban areas.

Behavior: Hawks are skilled hunters, using their agility and speed in flight to catch
prey such as small birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects.

Ecological Role: They play a crucial role in controlling populations of smaller

animals, helping maintain ecological balance.
Each of these birds holds unique characteristics and plays distinct roles in their
respective ecosystems, whether it's through seed dispersal (in the case of parrots and
hornbills), their hunting abilities (hawks), or their vibrant presence in their habitats.

-Socio Economic Condition

Marine capture fishery

Figures 5.1 Figures 5.2

The fisheries industry holds significant importance within Langkawi agricultural sector. Key
fishing districts include Kuah area. The Kuah fisheries district encompasses many fish
landing points across the area, that is spreadout through out the island. Most fishermen were
operating around Kompleks Pendaratan Ikan Kg. Penarak

As of 2019, there were 262 fishermen operating within the Kuah wetland, with 32 boats
licensed and 60 unlicensed (Figure 5.21). Sungai Kuah had the highest number of fishermen,
with 170 (20 fulltime and 150 part time) members. Following closely were Sungai Kelibang
with 92 fishermen (67 fulltime, 25 part time. Predominantly, fishermen operated from the
LKIM Kedah.

Regarding fishing gear, most fishermen employed artisanal gears like drift nets, hooks, lines,
and portable traps, mostly using outboard vessels within the shoreline and the 5 nautical mile
zone (Zone A). Some operated inboard vessels with smaller engines (<40 GRT) along the
shoreline. Additionally, larger inboard vessels used commercial gears such as fish purse
seines and anchovies purse seines, operating more than 5 nautical miles from the shoreline.

Figure 5.21
 Figure 5.22

Inland Fisheries

Within the Kuah wetland area, fishermen from Komuniti Pengkalan Nelayan Sg Kuah
Langkawi engaged in inland fisheries. Inland fisheries involve activities conducted in rivers
and other freshwater bodies like lakes, former mining pools, and freshwater swamps. All
these licensed fishermen were of Malay descent, utilizing drift nets or hooks and lines as
fishing gear. Operating outboard vessels, they primarily targeted the lubuk areas along Sg.
Kuah and its tributaries. In 2019, inland fisheries reported a huge total landing.
 Figure 5.3

Aquaculture
Sumaya Aquaculture (Kolam ternakan udang Kuala temoyong di pekan kuah)
https://www.bizmalay.com/sumaya-aquaculture-016-225-5912

Figure 6.1: Prawn farm

Prawn farming, a crucial facet of aquaculture, involves the controlled cultivation of prawns or
shrimp in specialized aquatic environments for commercial purposes. Employing techniques
like pond systems, these farms meticulously regulate water quality, temperature, and feeding
to optimize prawn growth and health. The farming process typically commences in
hatcheries, nurturing prawn larvae until they reach a suitable size for transfer to grow-out
ponds. Here, these crustaceans continue their growth over several months until they attain
marketable sizes, undergoing careful monitoring until harvest time, often involving draining
ponds and collecting mature prawns using various techniques such as netting or traps. While
contributing significantly to the seafood industry and local economies through employment
and income generation, prawn farming encounters challenges such as disease management
and environmental sustainability. Proper waste management and responsible farming
practices are vital to mitigate environmental impacts, ensuring the long-term viability of this
essential sector within aquaculture.

Wan fish farm kuah

https://www.bizmalay.com/langkawi-fish-farm-04-966-7988

Figure 6.2: Fish farm

Fish farms utilize diverse methods such as ponds, tanks, or net pens in natural water bodies to
rear fish species for human consumption or other purposes. These farms meticulously
manage water quality, temperature, and feeding to optimize fish growth. The process often
begins in hatcheries, where fish eggs hatch into fry, and the young fish are nurtured until they
reach a suitable size for transfer to larger rearing tanks or ponds. In these grow-out areas, the
fish continue to develop until they reach marketable sizes, typically being fed a specialized
diet. Harvesting methods vary, ranging from netting or seining to draining ponds or cages.
Fish farming plays a pivotal role in meeting global demand for seafood, providing a
consistent supply of fish for consumption and supporting the economy through employment
and revenue generation. However, challenges like disease outbreaks, waste management, and
environmental impacts necessitate sustainable practices. Adherence to responsible farming
techniques, waste control measures, and continuous monitoring of water quality are essential
for the sustainability and longevity of fish farming operations within the broader scope of
aquaculture.