Earthquake Awareness Must Be Part Of Community Resilience Says Johor State Rep

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THE recent earthquakes in Johor are a reminder that the government must step up efforts to raise awareness about seismic risks, said Jementah state assemblywoman Ng Kor Sim.
Ng said although Malaysia is not located within the Pacific Ring of Fire, the incident shows that public knowledge of how to respond in those critical few moments is still lacking and needs urgent attention.
Citing the tragic earthquake in Ranau, Sabah in 2015 which had claimed 18 lives as well as the 6.2-magnitude quake in Sumatra in February 2022 with tremors felt in several states as prime examples, Ng said both instances had led to many rushing out of buildings or spread unverified rumours on social media.
“This created unnecessary panic and anxiety. These reactions, while understandable, can put lives at greater risk,” she stated.
“Equipping communities with simple and clear guidelines, such as seeking shelter under a sturdy table, can go a long way in reducing panic and harm.
“Better awareness of how earthquakes occur in Malaysia will also reduce the spread of misinformation.”
Ng said this following a series of recent earthquakes in the southern state of Johor, namely the 4.1-magnitude earthquake that struck Segamat at 6.13am on Sunday (Aug 24),followed by another 2.8-magnitude aftershock at 9am in Yong Peng, about 28km northwest of Kluang.
On Aug 27, another 3.2-magnitude earthquake rattled Segamat at 8.59am, with tremors reportedly felt in parts of the state and southern Pahang.

According to Met Malaysia, it occurred along the Mersing Fault Zone and is an aftershock to Sunday’s earthquakes.
“Just as we prepare for floods and fires, the government should also make tremor preparedness part of the same culture of readiness,” Ng stressed.
“Schools, workplaces and neighbourhood associations can help raise awareness about earthquakes and instill safety habits that strengthen resilience across the community.
Ng said equally important is public confidence in the safety of the buildings, whereby periodic safety audits of high-rise structures and public facilities should be encouraged to ensure they can withstand minor tremors.
“These audits do not suggest that Malaysia faces imminent danger but rather that vigilance and preparedness are part of responsible governance,” she continued.
“These efforts must be seen as part of building community resilience in a broader sense. Regular community drills, clear communication channels during emergencies and engagement with local leaders can help ensure that accurate information reaches people quickly.
Ng pointed out that building this collective capacity means that no one faces uncertainty alone, and that even in the face of unexpected events, calm and cooperation can prevail.

“By strengthening awareness and reinforcing preparedness, we not only safeguard lives but also build confidence in our ability to face future challenges together,” she added. ‒  Focus Malaysia

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