Landslide in Cameron Highlands in 2024 (Screenshot from JKR Daerah Kinta Facebook)

A Roadmap for Disaster Resilience in Malaysia

From infrastructure to community involvement and good governance, resilience in the face of disasters must be built, writes disaster management professional Dr Sheikh Kamran Abid.

THIS November-to-December monsoon has been vicious, racking up the largest victim displacement – at least 120,000 – since the large big flood of 2014.

But Malaysia is no stranger to natural disasters. The country faces various environmental risks, from devastating floods to landslides and droughts. In recent years, the impacts of climate change have intensified these natural hazards, making it more urgent than ever to build disaster resilience.

(Feature image: As landslides and other natural disasters increase due to the climate crisis, resilience at every level needs to be built. | Screenshot from JKR Daerah Kinta Facebook )

But what exactly does building resilience mean, and how can Malaysia enhance its preparedness and recovery efforts?

Disaster resilience refers to the ability of a community, system, or infrastructure to anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. In the context of Malaysia, this means reducing the vulnerability of both urban and rural communities to natural hazards, enhancing the capacity to bounce back after disasters, and ensuring that these events do not derail the country’s long-term development goals.

Homepage of Info Banjir website, 2024
Screenshot from Info Banjir website, 2024

Infobanjir is a flood warning service run by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia (screenshots: JPS Malaysia Facebook)

Floods A Recurring Threat

Flooding is one of Malaysia’s most common natural disasters, often exacerbated by intense rainfall during the monsoon season. Cities like Kuala Lumpur, as well as rural areas in states like Kelantan and Terengganu, Sabah and Sarawak, are frequently affected by floods. With climate change contributing to more erratic weather patterns, the frequency and severity of flooding are only expected to increase.

Investing in upgraded drainage infrastructure can reduce the risk of flash floods, particularly in urban areas. Proper maintenance of existing systems is also critical. Implementing early warning systems using modern technology, such as satellite imagery and weather data, can help communities prepare in advance and evacuate if necessary.

Public education on flood risks, preparedness plans, and evacuation routes is essential. Local communities should be equipped with the knowledge and resources to act quickly during emergencies. New buildings, roads, and utilities should be designed to withstand flooding. This includes raising structures above expected flood levels and using materials that can resist water damage.

Landslides A Growing Concern

At the same time, landslides, particularly in Malaysia’s hilly and mountainous regions, have become a significant issue. States like Sabah, Sarawak, and the Cameron Highlands in Pahang are particularly vulnerable, especially after heavy rains or deforestation.

Strict zoning regulations should be enforced to prevent construction in landslide-prone areas. Development projects should consider geological assessments before construction begins. Planting trees and other vegetation on slopes can reduce soil erosion and minimize the risk of landslides.

Landslides can often be predicted with the help of monitoring technology, such as rainfall gauges and ground sensors. Real-time monitoring can give authorities time to issue warnings and evacuate at-risk areas.

Landslide in Cameron Highlands in 2024 (Screenshot from JKR Daerah Kinta Facebook)
Landslide in Cameron Highlands in 2024 (Screenshot from JKR Daerah Kinta Facebook)

Slopes are monitored by the Public Works Department who  also clear landslides and repair slopes and roads (screenshots: JKR Daerah Kinta Facebook)

Drought and Water Scarcity

While Malaysia is known for its abundant rainfall, some areas experience water scarcity during prolonged dry spells. The northern states and regions in East Malaysia are particularly vulnerable to droughts, which can impact agriculture, water supply, and livelihoods.

Promoting water conservation practices at the household, industry, and agricultural levels can help manage water resources more effectively during dry periods. Building resilient water infrastructure such as reservoirs, rainwater harvesting systems, and desalination plants can help ensure a steady water supply during droughts.

Farmers can be trained to use water-efficient farming techniques, such as drip irrigation and drought-resistant crop varieties, to mitigate the effects of water scarcity. Engaging communities in water management and conservation efforts can ensure local populations are more resilient to drought conditions.

Disaster-resilient Infrastructure

Infrastructure is critical in ensuring that a nation is prepared for and able to recover from disasters. In Malaysia, many existing structures are not built with climate change in mind, which makes them vulnerable to extreme weather events, such as floods and heat waves.

Cities should adopt resilient design principles that account for climate risks. This includes integrating green spaces, improving waste management, and creating cooling solutions to counteract heat stress.

Enforcing strict building codes that incorporate disaster resilience can help ensure that new infrastructure can withstand natural hazards. This includes seismic standards in areas at risk of earthquakes and flood-resistant designs. Upgrading older buildings and infrastructure to meet modern disaster-resistant standards can reduce vulnerability.

Community Engagement and Education 

Building resilience is not just about infrastructure — it is also about people. A well-informed and engaged population is key to reducing the loss of life and property during disasters. Schools, local governments, and NGOs can play a pivotal role in educating citizens on preparing for various types of disasters.

Community training sessions on first aid, evacuation drills, and how to create emergency kits should be prioritized. Empowering communities to take charge of their disaster risk management through local committees or volunteer groups can foster a sense of ownership and preparedness.

These groups can play a role in early warning systems, evacuation efforts, and post-disaster recovery. Special attention should be given to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, disabled, and those living in informal settlements. Tailored disaster response and recovery plans are essential to ensure inclusivity.

Policy and Governance for Resilience

Government policy guides disaster resilience efforts. Malaysia has made strides in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA) through frameworks like the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) and the National Climate Change Policy.

However, more can be done to integrate disaster resilience across all sectors. DRR should be incorporated into national development planning, addressing underlying vulnerabilities such as poverty and unplanned urbanization. With adequate resources and training, local governments should be empowered to lead disaster preparedness and response.

Disaster risks often cross borders, and Malaysia should continue to work with neighbouring countries to address transboundary risks such as floods, haze, and pandemics. Investing in research on disaster risks, impacts, and resilience strategies will help improve decision-making and ensure that Malaysia has the most effective tools to handle future disasters.

A Resilient Malaysia for the Future

Building disaster resilience is not a one-time effort but an ongoing commitment. By strengthening infrastructure, enhancing community preparedness, integrating disaster risk reduction into national policies, and investing in climate adaptation, Malaysia can better withstand the challenges posed by natural disasters and climate change. The road ahead is challenging, but with a concerted effort from all sectors of society, Malaysia can build a more resilient and sustainable future for all its citizens.

Sheikh Kamran Abid is a disaster management professional specialising in the intersections of climate change, flood vulnerability, and disaster resilience. His research addresses the complex dynamics of environmental hazards, particularly in the context of climate-induced flooding, and aims to improve disaster risk reduction strategies in vulnerable communities.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Macaranga.

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