Strategic master plan for coastal city risk mitigation: A case study of Kuala Nerus and Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia

This study outlines a comprehensive, data‑driven strategy for reducing coastal disaster risk in Kuala Nerus and Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, where communities face increasing exposure to erosion, flooding, sea‑level rise and climate‑related hazards. It presents an integrated multi‑hazard assessment and land‑use suitability framework that combines deep learning models, coastline‑change simulations, the Bruun Rule, Delphi‑Analytical Hierarchy Process (D‑AHP), and GIS‑based spatial analysis to inform a Coastal City Spatial Master Plan. The study draws on extensive field measurements, historical shoreline data, expert judgement and numerical modelling to identify high‑risk zones, quantify vulnerability, and map areas suitable for sustainable development. 

The study recommends strengthening coastal governance through systematic hazard monitoring, improved setback regulations, and the integration of numerical spatial data into planning decisions. It emphasises the need for site‑specific risk assessments, stakeholder engagement, and the use of high‑resolution spatial data to prioritise interventions. The authors propose that policymakers, planners and coastal managers adopt multi‑model, GIS‑supported approaches to design resilient urban environments capable of withstanding future climate and coastal hazards.