Malaysia has the total land area of 329,750 km² and a coastline of 4,840 km in total. Numerous rivers and creeks exist therein, all facing the problem of dilatation at the river mouth due to heavy sediment deposition from the upper stream coupled with long shore drift. This has resulted in the reduction of flow area for river discharge during times of flood that obstructs the smooth navigation of ships and fishing boats.

The National River Mouths Study conducted from 1992 to 1994 covered 100 objective river mouths in Malaysia. The study was carried out to formulate the master plan of river mouth improvement and to conduct the feasibility study for urgent projects selected in the master plan.