Analysis of the coastal erosion in Dungun, Terengganu using Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) and its impact on the community’s socio-economic

Coastal erosion is defined as the long-term loss of habitats and land along the shore, resulting in changes to the coastline. Therefore, it is crucial to identify shoreline changes, particularly along the Dungun coast in Terengganu, as these changes have significant socio-economic impacts. This study aims to: (1) estimate the rate of shoreline changes between 2016 and 2020 using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) method, and (2) analyse the impact of these changes on coastal communities along the Dungun coast. In this analysis, the End Point Rate (EPR) method within the DSAS was selected based on its application in previous studies. Overall, the coastal areas are experiencing a greater rate of erosion than accretion. The average erosion rate is -1.79 m/year, with the highest rate recorded at Sura Beach at approximately -9.44 m/year (2016–2020). In contrast, the average accretion rate is 2.11 m/year, with the highest accretion observed at the mouth of Sungai Dungun, at about 9.62 m/year (2016–2020). These results highlight the serious implications of coastal erosion for populations living along the shore, including the loss of property and damage to infrastructure, which disrupts economic and community activities. Thus, this study provides valuable insights for authorities to develop effective coastal erosion management strategies and emphasizes the need to raise awareness among coastal communities.