Johor allocates RM736,000 for seismic microzonation equipment to study Segamat earthquakes, following seven minor tremors since August
ISKANDAR PUTERI: Johor will begin procuring seismic microzonation mapping equipment early next year to enhance earthquake studies in Segamat.
The RM736,000 allocation was announced during the Johor Budget 2026 tabling at Kota Iskandar today.
State Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said the mobile equipment will study soil resistance and building structure responses to tremors.
“This initiative is vital to ensure that any potential tremors in the future can be identified through more in-depth studies and data,” he said when met after the budget presentation.
The procurement will be conducted in collaboration with the Malaysian Meteorological Department.
Ling described the equipment as crucial for conducting comprehensive studies and assessing tremor impacts more accurately.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Ghazi announced the allocation under the budget’s fifth thrust focusing on disaster risk reduction.
Since August 24, seven minor earthquakes have been recorded in Segamat, beginning with a magnitude 4.1 tremor.
Subsequent tremors measured between magnitude 2.5 and 3.4, with the most recent occurring on November 3 at magnitude 2.7.
Fifteen government buildings sustained minor damage during the August 24-30 earthquake series.
The Segamat Public Works Department reported estimated repair costs of RM550,000 for affected facilities.
Damaged buildings included Segamat Hospital, Bandar Putra Health Clinic, and Segamat Community College.
Other affected structures were the district Kadi Office, schools, and government quarters. – Bernama
