The Department of Mineral and Geoscience (JMG) has recorded a total of 24 sinkhole incidents in Malaysia between 2019-2014, with Perak reporting the highest number at 11 cases, according to the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES).
A reply was posted on the Parliament website detailing the geographical distributions of these incidents, Kuala Lumpur and Penang each recorded three cases, Kelantan two while other states Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Selangor, Melaka and Perlis each had one incident.
In response to the parliamentary inquiry by Datuk Che Mohamad Zulkifly Jusoh, the ministry disclosed these figures and outlined efforts to mitigate geological disaster risks. It affirmed that JMG is responsible for assessing geological hazards and risks, as well as developing national development planning standards to enhance safety in geological sensitive zones.
Additionally, NRES expressed their support for reviewing development standards in sinkhole-prone zones to minimize the risk. The ministry has stated the importance of geological data in planning and development, stating the information is crucial as it serves as the basis for preparing development proposals and geotechnical reports.
With increasing urban development and environmental changes, authorities continue to monitor and implement measures to mitigate sinkholes and their potential threats to infrastructure and public safety.
Sources: Bernama
