I urge the government to take action to create the awareness of the public towards the direction of building disaster-resistant communities.
Malaysia has always been considered safe from earthquakes as it is located outside the Pacific Ring of Fire.
The closest quakes that we have experienced here are the low magnitude tremors that occur each time after our neighbour Indonesia is struck by an earthquake. However, Sabah has recorded more than 80 quakes since 1897, with the highest magnitude of 3.8 at the Richter scale. Recently, the early morning quake in Sabah on June 5, with its magnitude of 5.9, was definitely a wake-up call to all.
The tremors felt in Tawau this morning has reminded us that the potential seismic hazards not only faced in Ranau and West Coast alone.
We are lacking of preparedness in disasters. Panic and complacency are two culprits of disasters.
I suggest that the government should take actions to build a disaster resistant community which is crucial to train the community to prepare for any emergencies.
Fundamentally, go back to schools to train Malaysians to be disaster resistant from young. How many of us know what to do if there is an earthquake or other disasters? Disaster education will boost community awareness and emergency preparedness. We can have regular emergency drills conducted in the community.
Furthermore, the government should review and decide the construction standard for the buildings, especially for the high rise.
Study the building bylaws, on how buildings can be strengthened, new features in construction can be added and early warning system can be implemented, just name a few examples.
Lastly, all government agencies involved in handling disaster and emergencies, should be re-skill and upskill their personnel to be earthquake ready.