Morphodynamic classification and coastal structure interactions in monsoonal coastal systems: Implications for sustainable coastal management

Coastal erosion has intensified coastal hazards, prompting widespread use of coastal protection structures to mitigate it. While effective, these interventions can alter natural shoreline dynamics, leading to unintended degradation. This study aims to advance understanding of beach morphodynamics under structural influence within monsoonal coastal systems. Field measurements of beach morphology and sediment characteristics were conducted across six sites during peak monsoon season, complemented by hydrodynamic simulations using MIKE 21-SW. Findings reveal distinct morphodynamic states between high-energy and low-energy environments. Energetic sites with coarser sediments and steep beach slope correspond to intermediate beach states, whereas calmer sites with finer sediments and gentle beach slope align with dissipative beach states. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by critically exploring the relationship between beach morphodynamics and coastal protection design discourse by cluster analysis and multidimensional scaling. Three main beach groups were identified, reflecting varying natural dynamics and designs of coastal structure. Importantly, the study emphasizes the need for region-specific management strategies, prioritising conservation in dynamic intermediate beaches and restoration in structurally constrained dissipative beaches. The research offers a repeatable and adaptable framework for assessing coastal systems shaped by both natural processes and human interventions, as well as supporting sustainable and site-specific coastal management. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------Cite this article: APA Style:Ismailluddin, A., Nasir, F., Yun, L. S., Zainuddin, S. N. H., Razali, M. R., Ramli, M. Z., Abdullah, M. A., & Ariffin, E. H. (2026). Morphodynamic classification and coastal structure interactions in monsoonal coastal systems: Implications for sustainable coastal management. Maritime Technology and Research, 8(3), 285742. https://doi.org/10.33175/mtr.2026.285742   MDPI Style:Ismailluddin, A.; Nasir, F.; Yun, L. S.; Zainuddin, S. N. H.; Razali, M. R.; Ramli, M. Z.; Abdullah, M. A.; Ariffin, E. H. Morphodynamic classification and coastal structure interactions in monsoonal coastal systems: Implications for sustainable coastal management. Marit. Technol. Res. 2026, 8, 285742. https://doi.org/10.33175/mtr.2026.285742   Vancouver Style:Ismailluddin A, Nasir F, Yun LS, Zainuddin SNH, Razali MR, Ramli MZ, Abdullah MA, Ariffin EH. (2026). Morphodynamic classification and coastal structure interactions in monsoonal coastal systems: Implications for sustainable coastal management. Marit. Technol. Res. 8(3):285742. https://doi.org/10.33175/mtr.2026.285742 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Highlights

Developed beach morphodynamic classification framework revealed a key indicator for site-specific beach states under varying hydrodynamic conditions and beach morphology. Cluster analysis and MDS ordination introduced an adaptable framework that integrates beach morphodynamic and anthropogenic influences to address novelty in traditional beach classifications. Intermediate beaches require conservation focused measures, while dissipative beaches need structural or restorative interventions.