JKR on guard against landslides

 

Taking precautions Workers busy repairing the slope at Taman Eko Rimba, Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, to prevent any untoward incidents during the upcoming northeast monsoon. — ART CHEN/ The Star

Early warning systems, monitoring best defence for risky slopes, say department

PETALING JAYA: With more than 1,000 slopes nationwide flagged as high-risk ahead of the northeast monsoon, the Public Works Department (JKR) says round-the-clock monitoring and early-warning systems remain the country’s best defence against sudden collapses.

JKR director-general Datuk Roslan Ismail said although the prediction of the exact time and location of a slope collapse is still very difficult, the ministry monitors precursors at all times to ensure minimal damage.

He said that, despite advanced technologies, it is still not easy to solve all of Mother Nature’s failings.  

ALSO READ: Avoid outdoor activities, public urged

The best the authorities can do is to treat the symptoms – the precursors such as rain and soil movement.

Roslan was responding to the recent announcement by Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi that there are slopes nationwide that are classified as high-risk and on the verge of collapsing at any time.

He said that there are 1,066 high-risk slopes in Peninsular Malaysia, seven in Sabah, one in Sarawak, and 13 in Labuan.

ALSO READ: High anxiety and higher insurance costs living near hillslopes

“In Peninsular Malaysia, numerous very high-risk slopes that have been previously identified are situated along federal roads. A notable cluster of these high-risk sites has been observed on the East-West Highway.

“Current systems do not ‘precisely predict’ every collapse (of soil). 

“What the system does is detect precursors (excessive rainfall, ground movement and pore pressure rises) and issue early-warning alerts when thresholds are exceeded. 

“Research and JKR practices show early-warning systems and real-time monitoring reduce surprise failures and allow protective action.

ALSO READ: Monsoon transition brings storm risks

“Through the Slope Engineering Branch of JKR, we are equipped to address potential disasters by identifying slopes that may be unstable. The Slope Hazard and Risk Map (SHaRp) works in tandem with the Landslide Early Warning System (EWS) to achieve this.

“This Early Warning System uses telemetry technology to provide early alerts when the rainfall index measured by installed rain gauges exceeds the warning threshold. There are 73 rain gauge stations installed across Malaysia,” said Roslan. 

Other sensors and thresholds used are the robotic total stations (RTS) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) at selected critical slopes to detect movement and rainfall thresholds that trigger alerts.

 “These sensors provide data on thresholds, such as rainfall amounts and displacement, to the monitoring room. When these thresholds are met, BiGBen will issue warnings, and roads can then be closed,” explained Roslan.

But he said that JKR does not just wait for these thresholds to be reached. 

“When a slope becomes imminently dangerous, operational measures such as pre-identified alternative routes, staged road closures, traffic diversions and coordination with emergency services will be activated immediately. 

“If landslides or slope failures occur, clearing the road and removing debris (landslide remnants), implementing traffic management plans, providing temporary diversion and alternative routes, and protecting the collapsed slope with plastic tarpaulin sheets to prevent further landslides before permanent slope repair or restoration work is carried out,” said Roslan. 

He said that, while slope failures are costly, the Works Ministry prioritises funding for repairs and prevention.

Roslan said that the ministry has also identified smaller sets for urgent repair for remedial work, which are specific projects with allocated budgets.

Despite the challenges in accurately predicting slope failures, Roslan emphasised that prevention remains a more cost-effective and safer approach.

“International and local studies show landslides produce large human and economic costs. 

“Malaysia has experienced costly landslide events, with academic research highlighting the cumulative impact of these incidents over several decades.

“Investing in monitoring, preventive maintenance, and remediation reduces fatalities, disruptions and long-term economic losses compared with post-disaster repairs and emergency response.

“Prevention is certainly better than allowing slope failures to occur, as large-scale landslides may result in much higher repair costs compared to early-stage mitigation costs. However, the government is subject to budget approvals and has a high backlog of repair works that must be prioritised.

“Preventive maintenance and early works budgets (and improved monitoring coverage) reduce the need for larger emergency expenditures and the indirect economic costs from road closures and disrupted supply chains,” said Roslan  - 

Related stories:

• Avoid outdoor activities, public urged
• Monsoon transition brings storm risks
• High anxiety and higher insurance costs living near hillslopes

The evolution of Malaysian foreign policy

Kuala Lumpur once prized non-alignment above all else – now it sees Beijing as more reliable than lectures from the West.- Murni Abdul Hamid

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during a parade for Malaysian Independence Day celebrations last month in Putrajaya, Malaysia (Syaiful Redzuan/Anadolu via Getty Images

Malaysia’s approach in navigating great power rivalry since the Cold War has largely been based on the principles of non-alignment, neutralism, and equidistance. However, two contrasting snapshots of the country’s Independence (Merdeka) Day celebration – half a century apart – offer an interesting perspective on whether Malaysia’s contemporary position has shifted away from these principles.

On 31 August 1973, Malaysia’s second Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak, hastily left the joyous Merdeka celebration midway to depart for Algiers and lead the Malaysian delegation to the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) Summit. It was his first time attending the summit. It had taken several attempts for Malaysia to become a NAM member, largely due to Indonesia’s opposition and influence within the Afro-Asian group during the Konfrontasi period. Malaysia’s experience of Konfrontasi and the retreat of the British from the region pushed the country to seek friends among other newly independent states.

When Malaysia finally became a NAM member in 1970, its foreign policy gradually shifted away from heavy reliance on the United Kingdom toward a more neutral and non-aligned stance. Against this background, Tun Razak strongly felt the need for Malaysia to be represented at the highest level in Algiers to signify the country’s commitment to non-alignment – even if it meant leaving the Merdeka celebration halfway.

Malaysia’s second Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak (Bettmann/Getty Images)

Jump forward just over 50 years to 31 August 2025, Malaysia’s tenth Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, left at the conclusion of the nation’s Merdeka celebration to immediately depart for China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. It was the first time Malaysia had participated in the SCO, in which Malaysia is neither a member nor an observer. It was also the first time a Malaysian leader attended China’s “Victory Parade” in Beijing, which this year took place a few days later, to commemorate the end of the Second World War, alongside other leaders including from Russia, North Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Iran.

Since becoming Prime Minister in late 2022, Anwar has visited China four times, with China’s President and Premier reciprocating accordingly (also a total of four times if including the upcoming ASEAN Summit and other meetings next month).

While China has been Malaysia’s largest trading partner since 2009, relations with China have further intensified in recent years both bilaterally and multilaterally. These include Malaysia’s active involvement in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and participation in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP). Stronger ties also extend to decisions to allow Chinese companies to develop the country’s second 5G network and to revitalise Malaysia’s national car industry, the recent acceptance of China’s vision of building a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind, and the landmark creation of a bilateral mechanism with China to discuss maritime issues. Malaysia’s decision to join BRICS, and the initiative to bring in China into the ASEAN-GCC platform by hosting the first-ever ASEAN-GCC-China Summit in Kuala Lumpur, also illustrate the depth of relations.

The actions of the great powers leave little room for Malaysia to manoeuvre, and siding with the more predictable and reliable power seems to be the less risky option.

While Malaysia’s intensification of cooperation with China should not be viewed as a zero-sum game, it is hard to ignore that this occurred against the backdrop of deteriorating relations with the United States. From the perspective of Malaysian leaders, the more benign power and trusted partner today is not the United States, but China. This, in spite of several challenges, particularly in the South China Sea.

In Anwar’s speech during President Xi Jinping’s visit to Malaysia earlier this year, he praised China as a rational, steady, and reliable partner amid the turbulence of “economic tribalism” and threats to multilateralism and the rules-based order. Last year, when Anwar spoke off-the-cuff at a business luncheon in honour of Premier Li Qiang in Kuala Lumpur, he commended the attitude of the Chinese leadership as “friendly, courteous, full of respect, [and] understanding of cultures and differences”, in contrast to the “narrative from the others” and the “barrage of questions” from others – especially “the western” – on whether Malaysia’s close relations with China would be in Malaysia’s best interest.

Understandably, as an independent nation, no country appreciates being told who it should be friends with, especially when those doing the lecturing neither act as they preach nor have been reliable friends in the first place.

While closer relations with the United States would still serve Malaysia’s interests – particularly in the realms of the economy and defence – they are proving even more elusive under President Donald Trump. His arbitrary tariff impositions, aggressive rhetoric (even against allies), withdrawals from multilateral organisations, disregard for the rule of law, undermining of the global order, and coddling of Israel have been obstacles for Malaysian leaders in promoting closer ties with the United States. Domestically, various opinion polls in recent years have shown a steady decline in Malaysians’ favourable perceptions towards the United States, while favourable views of China and even Russia have increased significantly.

If the above trend persists, Malaysia might find itself moving even further away from its non-aligned, neutral, and equidistant stances that served it well in the past. At present, however, the actions of the great powers leave little room for Malaysia to manoeuvre, and siding with the more predictable and reliable power seems to be the less risky option.

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Susannah Patton20h ago

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China in Southeast Asia?

A major new research project published by the Lowy Institute says yes – but there’s more to the story

RON95 patrol subsidy, M'sians to get up to 300l of RM1.99 RON95 - a 6 sen drop from RM2.05 a month from Sept 30, 2025

The RON95 subsidy retargeting is a key piece of the government’s efforts to repair its finances after nearly three decades of budget deficits.

Here is a detailed summary of the BUDI95 RON95 petrol subsidy for Malaysians, effective September 30

PUTRAJAYA: The price of RON95 petrol has been reduced to RM1.99 per litre, from RM2.05 per litre, effective Sept 30, through targeted subsidies under the Budi Madani RON95 (BUDI95) programme.

The good news was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Monday (Sept 22) at his monthly meeting with staff of the Prime Minister's Department.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said all Malaysian citizens with a valid driving licence are eligible for the RON95 subsidy and based on data from the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and the National Registration Department (JPN), it is estimated that more than 16 million people are eligible to receive the subsidy.

"These benefits and privileges are given as an appreciation and recognition of the spirit of National Day and Malaysia Day, as well as to honour all Malaysians.

"Starting Sept 30, non-citizens and large companies will no longer be eligible for the subsidy, as it is meant solely for personal use. They will have to pay the non-subsidised price of about RM2.60 per litre, while Malaysian citizens will continue to enjoy the subsidised price of RM1.99 per litre," he said.

Malaysians, he said, are eligible to receive a monthly BUDI95 of 300l, but e-hailing drivers can apply for a higher ceiling.

He added that, as a gesture of appreciation, police and military personnel will begin enjoying the RM1.99 per litre price from Saturday (Sept 27), ahead of the official implementation date, while the B40 group, who are recipients of the Rahmah Cash Contribution (STR), will start enjoying the subsidised price from Sunday (Sept 28).

This is to allow the public to gradually adapt to the new RON95 subsidy mechanism, he said.

Anwar said that, similar to the Basic Rahmah Contribution (Sara), no registration is required for BUDI95. Malaysians only need to use their MyKad to enjoy the subsidised price.

MyKad reader machines will be installed at shops and petrol pumps to help reduce the risk of congestion.

In this regard, he reminded the public to ensure their MyKad chips are functioning properly and that they hold a valid driving licence.

"Only citizens with a valid driving licence are eligible to receive the subsidy. So, for those who have yet to renew their licence, please do so immediately.

"Just like Sara, this is an appreciation initiative. It does not matter what your income level or position is - we are extending the blessing and benefit of this RON95 subsidy to all Malaysians.

"Some may criticise that even the super-rich are entitled to it, but this is our way of recognising and appreciating Malaysian citizens," he said.

For those who are digitally literate, Anwar said there are alternative payment options such as Touch'n Go and oil company applications like Petronas' Setel, which eliminate the need to use MyKad for every transaction.

He said Malaysia is the only country in the world bold enough to reduce fuel prices for its people despite the current uncertain global economic situation.

"Currently, the price in Saudi Arabia is RM2.61 per litre, and that is one of the largest oil-producing countries in the world. In comparison, petrol prices are RM3.22 per litre in Indonesia, RM4.22 per litre in the Philippines, RM5.68 per litre in Thailand, and RM9.02 per litre in Singapore.

"Of course, Singapore is not an oil producer, but I want to emphasise that even among oil-producing nations, Malaysia remains among the lowest... the only one slightly lower than us is Brunei," he said.

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New Covid-19 variant found

 

Pakar kesihatan turut memberi amaran bahawa kanak-kanak antara golongan lebih berisiko mengalami komplikasi serius jika dijangkiti varian XFG Covid-19. — Gambar hiasan

Photo: Bernama

PUTRAJAYA: A new Covid-19 variant has been detected in Malaysia, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad (pic).

He said the XFG variant accounted for 8.2% of the 43,087 accumulated Covid-19 cases reported in the 35th epidemiology week (ME 35/2025).

He said the new variant was detected by the Health Ministry through genomic surveillance to track the spread of variants.

“The latest genomic surveillance data shows that 34% of the reported cases are of the NB.1.8.1 variant, followed by JN.1 (18.1%), XEC (13.3%), XFG (8.2%) and others (21.0%),” he posted on his X account yesterday.

He added that the number of Covid-19 cases recorded in ME 35/2025 was a 49.5% drop compared with the number of cases reported in the same period last year, which was 85,297.

Dzulkefly said one death has also been reported in ME 35/2025 – a 91-year-old bedridden person – bringing the total number of deaths this year to three.

In June this year, the World Health Organisation designated the XFG variant as a “variant under monitoring” due to its high transmissibility and increased ability to evade immunity.

Dzulkefly reminded the public to continue preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, wearing face masks when symptomatic or in crowded areas and getting vaccinated, especially those in high-risk groups.

Varian baharu XFG Covid-19 dikesan di Malaysia, kanak- ...

Majoriti

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2 days ago — “Data terkini pemantauan genomik menunjukkan NB.1.8.1 masih dominan dengan 34 peratus, diikuti JN.1 (18.1%), XEC (13.3%), XFG (8.2%) dan ..

370,000 landowners in Penang to pay more

 

Overdue revision: Penang will increase quit rent in the state at the beginning of next year. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star

This means they will be paying an additional 16sen per square metre following the state's decision to revise the quit rent rate which has not been reviewed for 31 years. To minimise the financial burden on the people, a 32.5% tax rebate will be provided next year, followed by a 20% rebate in 2027 and 2028.

370,000 landowners in Penang to pay more | The Star

370,000 landowners in Penang to pay more | The Star

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/09/20/370000-landowners-in-penang-to-pay-more#:~:text=This%20means%20they%20will%20be,rebate%20in%202027%20and%202028.

GEORGE TOWN: Come Jan 1, about 370,000 land title owners in Penang will face an increase in their quit rent rate of between 29% and 200%, a move that has raised eyebrows.

This means they will be paying an additional 16sen per square metre following the state’s decision to revise the quit rent rate which has not been reviewed for 31 years.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/09/20/370000-landowners-in-penang-to-pay-more#:~:text=This%20means%20they%20will%20be,rebate%20in%202027%20and%202028.

More heavy rain and flooding expected in Oct, says MetMalaysia

 

Weather watch: MetMalaysia staff monitoring a weather forecast display. — AZMAN GHANI /The Star

PETALING JAYA: The heavy rains and deadly Sabah floods and landslides have already claimed 13 lives.

But meteorologists warn that this could only mark the start of a more dangerous monsoon season.

There is likely to be worse weather ahead as Malaysia transitions from the southwest to the northeast monsoon.

“Thunderstorms and heavy rains are on the horizon in October. 

“From mid-November, the northeast monsoon will bring continuous rainfall, affecting the east coast of the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak,” Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) director-general Dr Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip says.

He noted that these weather patterns will particularly affect the western and inland regions of the peninsula, as well as western and central Sarawak and western Sabah, with the most intense activity occurring in the afternoons and early evenings.

Hisham warned that low-lying and riverbank areas could see flash floods.

“Climate change is causing more frequent and extreme weather events, including heavier rainfall and severe thunderstorms accompanied by hailstorms and tornadoes.

“It’s essential to understand our climate patterns and plan travel to avoid high-risk areas during adverse weather,” he said.

Climatologists anticipate wetter and more extreme weather in the coming months due to climate change and the La Nina phenomenon.

Dr Fredolin Tangang of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia highlighted a report from the US Climate Prediction Centre, which predicts a more than 70% chance of Pacific Ocean cooling between October and December.

“This will lead to high atmospheric moisture during the northeast monsoon starting mid-November, increasing the likelihood of extreme weather,” he said.

Tangang noted that global warming exacerbates these conditions by increasing the atmosphere’s moisture capacity, causing more and heavier rain.

He warned that the La Nina effect, combined with global warming, is likely to persist, heightening the risk of extreme rainfall, floods and landslides in Malaysia, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak.

“Proper maintenance of drainage systems is crucial to manage the increased rainfall,” he added

Meteorologist Prof Datuk Dr Azizan Abu Samah also predicted heavier rainfall due to La Nina.

“Although currently in an ENSO-neutral state, forecasts indicate a weak La Nina this winter, suggesting above-average rain during the northeast monsoon,” he said.

The inter-monsoon transition is expected around October to November as the southwest monsoon weakens.

Azizan said the recent heavy rainfall in Sabah was due to a westerly southwest wind and the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) interacting with a cyclonic low pressure north of the Philippines.

“The wet phase of the MJO should end by this weekend, providing relief to Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.

The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) reported the end of the southwest monsoon, which began on May 10, has caused some areas to see daily rainfall of over 80mm.

Eastern Sabah is likely to see more thunderstorms and heavy rain, at least until Sept 22.

Squall lines capable of producing severe weather are also expected in western Peninsular Malaysia, western Sabah, and northern Sarawak during early mornings, with thunderstorms likely in other regions during afternoons and evenings.

Nadma director-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah said that the agency was fully prepared, especially after the minor earthquake in Segamat, Johor, and the heavy rains in Sabah.

By MARTIN CARVALHO

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New Covid-19 variant found

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