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MALAYSIA’S seismic hazard map is set for a comprehensive review to keep the country’s engineering standards, safety codes and development planning in line with evolving geological data, the government has confirmed.
Acting Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said the ministry, through the Minerals and Geoscience Department (JMG), would table a proposal early next year under the Seismic Hazard Map Enhancement Project for Cabinet consideration.
“The updating of the seismic hazard map will include studies on active fault mapping and the installation of new benchmark fault-movement stations. It will be expanded to states identified as having fault zones and exposure to geological hazards such as earthquakes.
“This seismic hazard map remains relevant and must be updated from time to time,” he said in a written parliamentary reply posted on Parliament’s website yesterday.
He was responding to a question from Muhammad Islahuddin Abas (PN–Mersing), who asked how far the ministry had updated the national seismic hazard map in light of recent tremors in Segamat, Johor, and how effective Malaysia’s building codes were in addressing moderate seismic risks.
He also queried measures to strengthen the seismic monitoring network and early-warning capacity.
Johari said Malaysia’s seismic and early-warning network had been significantly enhanced, with the Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) now operating 80 seismic stations at strategic locations nationwide.
“This seismic data is transmitted via satellite communication lines in real time. In addition, METMalaysia receives real-time seismic data from 323 international seismic stations,” he said.
Under Phase 2 of the Earthquake and Tsunami Services Enhancement Project, part of the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), the government will strengthen 12 existing seismic stations, construct two new stations in Segamat and Muar, and upgrade four stations in Johor to improve detection of low-magnitude local earthquakes.
Johari said these measures aim to ensure Malaysia’s scientific monitoring systems and safety standards evolve in tandem with the country’s increasing exposure to geological risks. - November 14, 2025