Malaysia is No Longer Zero-Risk! 🚨 Essential Earthquake Survival Tips You Must Know

Why Malaysia Is No Longer 100% Safe from Earthquakes
Malaysia’s location outside the major tectonic plate collision zones reduces but does not eliminate earthquake risks. Sabah has recorded earthquakes measuring between 6.0 and 6.3 on the Richter scale in the past century, and Peninsular Malaysia has experienced smaller tremors in areas such as Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, and Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan. The government and experts emphasize preparedness as seismic events can occur unpredictably.

3-Step Self-Rescue Guide During an Earthquake (DCH Method)

1. Drop
Get down on your hands and knees to avoid being knocked over.  

2. Cover
Protect your head and neck with your arms and move under a sturdy table or desk.  

3. Hold On
Stay under cover until the shaking stops to avoid injury from falling objects.

‍Avoid running outside immediately as strong shaking can cause falls, and exposed areas increase the risk of injury from debris or crowd-related accidents.

‍Earthquake Safety Tips by Location
High-Rise Buildings 
-Do not use elevators during shaking.  
-Move away from windows to avoid shattered glass.  
-Hold onto sturdy furniture and keep your body low.  

‍Home or Low-Rise Buildings  
-Take cover under a table and protect your head and neck.  
-Stay away from windows, mirrors, heavy furniture, and unsecured objects.  
-After shaking, check the surroundings before moving.

Inside a Train
-Hold onto the rails to maintain balance.  
-Follow the instructions from the staff calmly.  
-Avoid rushing to exits at stations to prevent crowding.

Inside a Car 
‍-Slow down safely and pull over away from bridges, tunnels, trees, and power lines.  
-Stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and protect your head.  
-Only leave the vehicle if it is unsafe to remain inside.

‍At the Beach or Coastal Areas
-Move to higher ground immediately if shaking is strong, to avoid tsunami risk.  
-Follow local evacuation orders and alerts.

‍Outdoors
-Move to open areas away from buildings, power lines, and trees.  
-Crouch and protect your head.  
-Avoid slopes and unstable terrain to prevent landslides.

‍After the Earthquake: What to Do Next
-Check yourself and others for injuries and provide first aid if needed.  
-Inspect for gas leaks. If suspected, turn off the gas, ventilate, and avoid flames or electrical switches.  
-Stay informed via battery-operated radios or official sources.  
-Be prepared for aftershocks and avoid damaged structures.  
-Use phones only for emergency calls to keep lines open

‍Preparing Your Home and Family
-Secure heavy furniture, appliances, and electronics to prevent tipping.  
-Consider retrofitting your home to withstand seismic forces, especially in vulnerable areas like Sabah.  
-Assemble a disaster kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, medications, and important documents. 
-Review your insurance policies to ensure earthquake coverage.

‍Malaysia’s Earthquake Monitoring and Response
Malaysia operates a network of seismic sensors and tsunami sirens nationwide, capable of issuing alerts within minutes of detection. The National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) and the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) conduct regular drills, especially in high-risk areas like Mount Kinabalu, Sabah.

Summary
While Malaysia may not be in a high-risk earthquake zone, the threat is real and unpredictable. Being informed, prepared, and knowing how to respond during an earthquake can save lives. Remember the DCH method: Drop, Cover, Hold On, and tailor your actions based on your location. Stay alert to official warnings and keep your emergency kit ready. Stay safe, stay prepared!