<![CDATA[Coastal areas play a strategic role in supporting economic, social, and environmental activities, thereby requiring well-planned and sustainable management. During the period 2015–2024, the coastal region of West Sumatra experienced significant land-use changes driven by population growth, residential expansion, infrastructure development, and the implementation of government development and spatial planning policies. While these changes have contributed to regional development, they have also increased pressure on coastal ecosystems, particularly in relation to coastal erosion risks. This study aims to analyze land-use changes in the coastal areas of West Sumatra during the 2015–2024 period and examine their relationship with population growth, government policies, and the potential for future coastal erosion. The research employed a quantitative descriptive method with a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based spatial analysis approach using overlay techniques on satellite imagery, population data, and spatial planning policy documents. The results indicate that residential and built-up areas increased from 12,450 hectares to 16,870 hectares, representing a growth of approximately 35.5%. In contrast, mangrove areas decreased by 24.2%, while agricultural land declined by 17.0%. These findings suggest that population growth and government development policies have contributed to land-use conversion in coastal areas. The reduction of mangrove ecosystems, which function as natural coastal protection, has further increased the vulnerability of these areas to coastal erosion. Therefore, strengthening the role of government in spatial planning control, coastal ecosystem protection, and the formulation of sustainable development policies is essential. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable input for policymakers in designing more effective and sustainable coastal management strategies.]]>
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