Coastal resources, activities and challenges to local and indigenous Mah Meri community along the coastlines of Port Klang and the Klang Islands

Engku Aisyah Nasuha Engku Faris, Sanjeef Kumr Subramaniam, Qhaiyyum Azhar Ramli, Mozard Mohtar, Azni Zarina Taha, Hanafi Hussin, Lim Phaik Eem, Hanizah Idris, Archina Buthiyappan, Siti Aisyah Alias

Abstract


Malaysia’s coastal zones provide significant environmental and socioeconomic value, particularly for resource-dependent and Indigenous communities. This study focuses on the coastal resources, livelihood activities, and challenges faced by the Indigenous Mah Meri community along the coastlines of Port Klang and the Klang Islands, Malaysia, with the aim of contributing to broader discussions on Indigenous resilience and sustainable coastal development. Five study zones were established, covering Klang, Pulau Ketam, Pulau Tengah, Northport, Pulau Indah, Pulau Che Mat Zin, Pulau Pintu Gedong, and Pulau Selat Kering. Data was collected through desktop study, field observations and supported by secondary spatial data, including satellite imagery and base maps, which were visualized using ArcMap software tool (version 10.8.2) to delineate the study area and identify the distribution of coastal features. The findings indicate that mangroves, coastal rivers, beaches, and coastal waters are the most dominant natural resources across the study area, forming the basis of key economic activities such as fisheries, tourism, shipping, and logistics. Pulau Ketam demonstrates a high concentration of small-scale fisheries and tourism-related activities, supporting local livelihoods. However, the Mah Meri community faces increasing challenges due to environmental pressures and surrounding development, which affect both resource availability and income stability. This study highlights the interconnected relationship between coastal resources and Indigenous livelihoods and contributes to sustainable development discourse by emphasizing the need for inclusive, community-based strategies to enhance resilience and ensure the long-term sustainability of coastal ecosystems.

 

Keywords: Coastal vulnerability, indigenous knowledge systems, mangrove dependency, small-scale fisheries, socio-ecological systems


Keywords


Coastal vulnerability, indigenous knowledge systems, mangrove dependency, small-scale fisheries, socio-ecological systems

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