Few Penang structures earthquake-ready, says assemblyman
GEORGE TOWN: Only two structures in Penang are designed to withstand earthquakes with a magnitude of 7.0 on the Richter scale and within 300 km of the epicentre.
Ong Ah Teong (PH - Batu Lanchang) stated that the two structures are the first Penang Bridge and Komtar, which houses the chief minister and state executive council members' offices.
"When asked about the number of earthquake-resistant buildings on Penang Island, the answer from the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) is quite concerning, as there is no specific data regarding buildings designed to withstand earthquakes.
"As of what is known, only Komtar and Penang Bridge are designed to withstand earthquakes. This shows that the technical and structural planning capabilities for earthquake resistance do exist," he said when debating the motion of thanks for Yang Dipertua Negri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib's speech, who officiated the sitting last Friday (May 16).
Ong said it is important for such technology and requirements to be extended to all high-rise residential buildings.
He urged the state government, through local authorities, to update the High-Rise Building Technical Guidelines by making earthquake-resistant design mandatory for all new development projects.
He added that the Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL) and Local Plans (RT) should also be adapted to align with current needs and modern disaster risks.
Ong suggested that MBPP and relevant agencies carry out structural audits of existing buildings, particularly those over 20 storeys high or built before the year 2000.
He proposed that the state government introduce an Earthquake Protection Scheme, similar to what is practised in Taiwan, where earthquake disaster coverage is part of fire insurance policies.
He also suggested establishing a Penang State Disaster Protection Fund in collaboration with the insurance and financial sectors.
On May 11, tremors were felt in certain areas on the island of Penang after a moderate 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck north Sumatra at 4.57pm. Many Penangites, especially those living in high-rise buildings, felt the quake, which occurred about 500km away.
On March 28, a powerful earthquake struck Mandalay in Myanmar, resulting in the destruction of buildings and loss of life.
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