Emergency Guide: How to Stay Safe When an Earthquake Happens in Malaysia

Earthquakes are rare but real threats for Malaysians particularly following tremors like those in Segamat, Johor or Sabah. This earthquake safety guide for Malaysia covers essential preparedness steps, in-the-moment actions, and post-quake response recommendations. Bookmark this guide to help protect yourself, your family, and your community.

 

1. Understand Earthquake Risk in Malaysia

Situated on the stable Sunda Plate, Malaysia enjoys a lower earthquake risk but it’s not immune. Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah have experienced seismic activity, including the magnitude-6.0 Ranau quake in 2015. The adoption of Eurocode 8 seismic design standards in 2021 signals growing recognition of earthquake resilience as a necessity in construction and building safety.

 

2. Prepare in Advance: Build Your Earthquake Emergency Kit

A robust disaster kit is vital:

• Include essentials: water, non-perishable food, flashlight, spare batteries, first aid supplies, essential medications, important documents, and basic tools.

• Prepare for family separation: establish meeting points and emergency contacts for safe reunification.

• Secure your space: Fasten heavy furniture, appliances, and glass objects to prevent injury or structural damage.

3. During an Earthquake: Immediate Safety Actions

Indoors:

• Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and seek refuge under a strong table or desk. Hold tight until shaking stops.

• Steer clear of windows, unsecured heavy items, and do not use elevators.

In Bed:

• Stay where you are. Lie face-down, protect your head and neck with a pillow, and hold on.

Outdoors:

• Move to an open area, clear of trees, walls, power lines, and tall structures.

While Driving:

• Pull over safely away from overpasses and signs; remain in the vehicle until the shaking ceases.

4. After an Earthquake: Post-Quake Safety Measures

• Treat injuries and administer first aid; seek professional help as needed.

• Check utilities: Smell or listen for gas leaks, shut off sources, ventilate, and avoid using open flames or electric switches until safe.

• Avoid damaged areas and expect aftershocks—return to safety protocols if shaking resumes.

• Stay informed via battery-powered radios for updates from NADMA or Malaysian authorities.

5. Prepare Your Community & Home

• Encourage participation in community drills and share awareness within neighborhood networks.

• Learn from public advice: recent quake experts recommend practicing “Drop, Cover, Hold On,” checking structural integrity, and keeping a 72-hour emergency kit.

• The SMART (Special Malaysian Disaster Assistance & Rescue Team) and NADMA stand ready to lead rescue and response operations.

Summary: Earthquake Safety at a Glance

Phase	Action Steps
Before	Assemble emergency kit, secure hazardous items, plan family communication
During	Follow “Drop, Cover, Hold On”; avoid dangerous spots
After	Administer first aid, assess utilities, look out for aftershocks
Community	Join drills, keep informed via NADMA, connect with SMART responders

Final Thoughts

Though rare, earthquakes in Malaysia demand good earthquake preparedness planning, real-time response awareness, and effective community coordination. By following this emergency guide, focused on safety, preparedness, and resilience, you stand prepared to protect yourself and help others when tremors strike.

 

 

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Reference: 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_Malaysia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special_Malaysia_Disaster_Assistance_and_Rescue_Team
https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-an-earthquake-travel-safety-tips
https://www.kln.gov.my/web/chl_santiago/news-from-mission/-/blogs/prepare-before-an-earthquake
https://www.nadma.gov.my/bi/media-en/news/2720-earthquake-preparedness-and-safety-in-sabah
https://www.earthquakecountry.org/step5
https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=2460099&