"SPKMP is a public programme with the objective of uplifting the level of wellness among coastal community particularly the poor households. Since its inception in 2001,
the programme has undergone several phases of improvement. However, until now
living conditions of the coastal poor households remain unchanged. The present study
aimed at assessing performance of SPKMP in terms of implementation of the program
as well as the performance of the organizations that involved in the program,
particularly looking into the mechanism used in managing the program with special
reference to district of Kuala Terengganu. By using official records and reports from
various agencies at the central level and district offices besides observation and in-depth
interviews with households and officials at the agencies involved, the study discovered
some interesting findings. Firstly, the principles serve as a guideline for the
implementation of the program were not followed by the implementing agencies at the
district level. Various malpractices were also detected. Secondly, the evaluation showed
that most of the program outputs cannot help the fishermen to increase their household
income and savings. Thirdly, the marine resources are depleting, therefore the fishermen
are not able to increase their catch. Furthermore, coastal communities have not received
sufficient assistance in the program so they do not get the necessary moral support. This
study shows that the development agencies have not been able to implement the
program properly because of weak and inefficient management. Policies, strategies and
activities that are more suitable are needed to improve the program."
