A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment, Resources & Development

Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1994

The aim of this project is to ascertain the development impact of human activities on the natural coastal ecosystems of Northwest Langkawi, Malaysia during the period of 1985 to 1994. Studies have been carried out on the water-shed area of Northwest Langkawi, 4,857 hectares. Change detection of the terrestrial, intertidal and marine areas have been carried out. Remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) are used as a tool to detect the terrestrial changes. LANDSAT Thematic Mapper (February 1989 and January 1992) and aerial photographs (1989 and 1994) are utilized in this study. Results obtained showed that much of the landuse/cover of the study area had undergone changes. These changes were seen highest for the primary forest where approximately 11 .5% of the total area had been cut to make way for development. The mangrove forest acreage was also declining. Increase in acreage were observed for built-up areas, grasslands, baresoil, and belukar (secondary regrowth) due to the on-going development within the study area. However, a decrease was observed for the cultivated land. The annual sediment load estimated for the study area was considered low, 13,542 tons per year. A decrease in live coral coverage was observed between 1989 and 1994 resulting in an increase in coral debris. The marine water quality of the study area showed no changes except for the increase in sedimentation rates near the river mouths and the reef flat. No chemical pollution was observed throughout the study period. Chemical leachings observed in 1989 data showed minimal short term impact on the marine environment.