Malaysia considers building long jetty to solve Kuala Perlis ferry terminal's shallow water issues

The Kuala Per Perlis ferry terminal, a key gateway to Langkawi island since its opening in 1993, is struggling with significantly reduced services. Initially handling up to 10 trips daily, the terminal's operations have been drastically cut to just three trips per day since March.

The primary issue is the shallowing of the navigation channel due to siltation and sandbanks. Despite annual dredging efforts, these measures are not providing a comprehensive solution, as the problem recurs and continues to disrupt ferry services. Between 2003 and 2022 alone, RM101.1 million was allocated for dredging work in the Kuala Perlis estuary to address the shallow channel.

State officials are exploring new methods to overcome the persistent problem. Menteri Besar Abu Bakar Hamzah stated that the state government is considering building a new jetty or mooring facility that would extend approximately one to two kilometers into the sea. Several investors have reportedly expressed interest in undertaking this project, with an estimated cost of around RM500 million.

Abu Bakar noted that discussions are about 60% complete before finalization. He believes this new infrastructure would permanently resolve issues of siltation and stranded ferries, safeguarding the state's economy from losses incurred when tourists opt for alternative routes. He contrasted this long-term investment with the recurring, costly, yet incomplete, annual dredging operations.