LABUAN: The Department of Federal Territories (JWP) has approved an allocation of RM520,000 for community projects and to address coastal erosion issues in this duty-free island.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr. Zaliha Mustafa said RM200,000 has been earmarked for the construction of a beach retaining wall to resolve shore erosion near the existing food stalls at Kampung Tanjung Aru Nelayan.
She said the coastal erosion problem was identified through the National Coastal Erosion Study (NCES) conducted by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage in 2015.
Dr. Zaliha explained that this issue has led to erosion along a one-kilometre stretch of the coastal area, affecting the land of villagers in proximity to the coast.
“There were previous efforts by villagers to construct a temporary retaining wall from cement stones, which unfortunately succumbed to damage during a severe storm.
"This allocation is aimed at curbing coastal erosion, providing relief to traders and the public who are impacted by this persistent issue near the business activity site," Dr. Zaliha said.
In addition to the beach erosion project, the JWP has approved RM270,000 for 27 Village Development and Security Committees (JPKK) in Labuan to address various village-related matters and administration.
Dr. Zaliha also said RM50,000 has been allocated to support 50 local farmers involved in urban farming at Kampung Layang-Layangan.
She said the community farm (kebun komuniti) in Kampung Layang-Layangan, spanning 410 square metres, has been operational since 2022 and cultivates crops such as corn, calamansi lime, and brinjal.
"The crop yield from the community garden contributes to improving the villagers' standard of living, generating revenue for the Kampung Layangan Mosque, and benefiting the local communities," Dr. Zaliha said.
She said the Agriculture Department is actively involved in providing training and exposure to planting methods and plant care for those engaged in the urban farming project.
Dr Zaliha said tackling urban poverty remains a key focus for JWP as she takes charge of the administration of the federal territories.
