Building with Nature (BwN) is a globally recognised holistic approach for climate adaptation, leveraging natural systems to protect coastlines while enhancing biodiversity and community resilience. Following the success of the BwN Tanjung Kepah Mangrove Action Project, Wetlands International has expanded this approach to a new location, Sungai Haji Dorani, Selangor to address the escalating threats of coastal erosion and mangrove degradation.

Located in Sungai Besar, a low-lying coastal area in the district of Sabak Bernam, Sungai Haji Dorani has been ranked third in severity of the most erosion-prone zones along the Selangor coastline. The surrounding communities of Kampung Sungai Haji Dorani and Kampung Sungai Limau rely heavily on agriculture (paddy fields, coconut and oil palm plantations) and fisheries (traditional fishing and aquaculture ponds) for their livelihoods. Without intervention, these communities face increasing vulnerability due to climate-induced coastal change.

To restore natural coastal protection and mitigate further damage, a Bamboo Wave Screen (Skrin Ombak Telap) will be installed along the shoreline. This eco-engineered, permeable structure slows wave energy, reduces erosion, and promotes sediment accumulation. By stabilising the foreshore, it creates a more favourable environment for natural mangrove regeneration, forming a living greenbelt that serves as the coastline’s first line of defence.

This project reflects Wetlands International’s continued commitment to replicable and scalable nature-based solutions that integrate ecological, social, and climate adaptation goals. Like in Tanjung Kepah, the success of the initiative lies in close collaboration with local stakeholders, authorities, and community members, ensuring that the solution is both technically sound and socially rooted.

With ongoing implementation, the BwN Sungai Haji Dorani Mangrove Project aspires to become another model of how restoring coastal ecosystems can protect lives, sustain livelihoods, and build climate resilience. We work with nature, not against it.

Contact Person: Ms Azwani Sahibu, Technical Officer, Wetlands International ([email protected])