Sediment Characteristics and Coastal Erosion Vulnerability Assessment Along the Batu Pahat Coast, Malaysia

This study evaluates sediment characteristics and coastal erosion vulnerability along the Batu Pahat coastline, focusing on Pantai Punggur, Pantai Perpat, and Pantai Parit Hailam in Johor, Malaysia. Eight sediment samples were analysed to determine specific gravity, moisture content, and bulk density, providing insights into the physical behaviour of coastal sediments that influence shoreline stability. Specific gravity values ranged from 2.78 to 2.96, consistent with earlier findings in eroded coastal areas, while moisture content varied between 70.1% and 122.6%, reflecting the heterogeneous sediment composition across sites. Bulk density values ranged from 1.14 to 1.36 g/cm³, largely governed by soil texture, where higher clay and silt contents contributed to lower densities and sandy compositions showed higher values. To assess erosion vulnerability, the Coastal Erosion Risk Assessment (CERA) framework was applied following the Source–Pathway–Receptor–Consequence (SPRC) model. Eleven physical and environmental parameters were integrated to generate a final CERA risk map that synthesises susceptibility, value, exposure, vulnerability, and consequences. The results classify Pantai Punggur as a high-risk area (Level 4), driven by moderate shoreline change rates, weak coastal defences, and proximity of infrastructure to the active shoreline. Pantai Perpat and Pantai Parit Hailam fall within moderate-risk levels (Level 3), reflecting the influence of high exposure and variable sediment properties despite lower erosion rates. Overall, the study highlights the combined role of sediment characteristics and coastal processes in driving erosion vulnerability and provides essential guidance for targeted coastal protection and management.