Johor Earthquakes Highlight Seismic Risks for Malaysia, Singapore

The recent earthquakes that struck northern Johor on August 24, 2023, serve as a stark reminder of the seismic risks faced by Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore. Two mild tremors were recorded, with magnitudes of 4.1 and 2.8, respectively, prompting geological experts to emphasize the potential for more significant seismic activity in the region.

The first quake occurred at approximately 06:15, located 5 kilometers west of Segamat at a depth of 10 kilometers. The second tremor was detected at 09:00, 28 kilometers northwest of Kluang. Reports of falling debris and cracks in buildings surfaced as startled residents felt the tremors across various Malaysian states, including Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, and Pahang.

Seismic History and Current Risks

Experts note that the recent earthquakes are not isolated incidents. Historical records indicate that Johor experienced notable seismic events in 1922, when two significant earthquakes, measuring above 5 on the Richter scale, were widely felt. A subsequent tremor in 1948 near southern Singapore also caused property damage, underscoring the region’s vulnerability to seismic events.

According to Aron Meltzner, an earthquake geology expert from Nanyang Technological University’s Earth Observatory of Singapore, the recent quakes highlight the activity of local geological faults. “The Johor region has experienced even larger earthquakes in the past, indicating that while they are rare, the faults in the Malay Peninsula are active,” he stated.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) confirmed that both earthquakes were centered near the Mersing Fault Zone, a major fault system within the peninsula. MetMalaysia’s director-general, Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip, assured that while tremors do occur, they are typically minor, with significant impacts on life and property remaining low.

Potential for Future Earthquakes

Despite the relatively low frequency of strong earthquakes, geologists warn that the region cannot be complacent. Experts suggest that earthquakes with magnitudes up to 6 are possible in the future, especially given the Mersing Fault’s capacity for larger seismic events. Azlan Adnan, a fellow at the Academy of Sciences Malaysia, emphasized the need for enhanced monitoring to assess this risk.

“Considering the Mersing Fault Zone, which could be at least 20 kilometers long, if it ruptures fully, a magnitude of up to 6.5 could occur,” Adnan explained.

Geologist Wei Shengji from NTU also noted that the history of seismic activity in the region, including notable tremors in 1922, suggests the possibility of larger earthquakes reoccurring. “The events of 1922 were felt widely in Singapore, indicating that the potential for significant seismic activity in the future is real,” he added.

In light of these recent events, experts advocate for better monitoring systems and preparedness measures. They suggest that authorities need to allocate resources for the installation of additional seismometers and an accelerograph network to provide real-time data during seismic events. Such enhancements could facilitate timely public warnings, potentially saving lives.

Meltzner cautioned that developing an effective warning system will take time. Drawing parallels with California, he noted that it took over two decades to establish a reliable system there, which remains a work in progress.

As Malaysia enhances its railway infrastructure through projects like the East Coast Rail Link, there are concerns about how seismic activity could impact rail systems. Azlan highlighted the necessity for inspections of public transport systems post-earthquake to ensure safety and operational integrity.

With climate change also influencing geological interactions, environmentalists like Renard Siew suggest that increased rainfall could indirectly amplify seismic risks. He pointed to studies indicating that changing environmental conditions may affect soil dynamics, leading to increased seismic activity in certain regions.

In conclusion, the recent earthquakes in Johor have reignited discussions about the seismic risks faced by Malaysia and Singapore. As experts call for improved monitoring and preparedness, it is evident that both countries must remain vigilant in addressing the potential for future seismic events.