Mild earthquake in Johor’s Segamat due to regional tectonic pressure, fire and rescue teams on alert
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The earthquake was recorded 18km south of Segamat at 8.59am on Aug 27.
PHOTO: MALAYSIAN METEOROLOGICAL DEPARTMENT/FACEBOOK
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SEGAMAT, Malaysia – A mild earthquake measuring 3.2 on the Richter scale that struck Segamat in Johor on Aug 27
The tremor was detected at 8.59am, with its epicentre located about 18km from the town, said the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia).
The Department of Minerals and Geoscience Malaysia (JMG) said the quake likely stemmed from shallow crustal movement linked to the Mersing fault line.
“Although Peninsular Malaysia sits on a relatively stable continental plate, it remains indirectly influenced by active tectonic zones, particularly the Sunda Subduction Zone off western Sumatra. Stress from these zones can reactivate dormant faults, resulting in small to moderate quakes.
“This event highlights the potential reactivation of existing fault lines within Peninsular Malaysia,” it said.
JMG added that the shallow depth of less than 10km suggested crustal activity rather than deeper subduction forces.
Historical records show that Malaysia has experienced tremors in areas such as Bukit Tinggi, Kenyir, Kuala Pilah and Perak’s Manjung-Temenggor, underscoring the country’s low but recurring seismic risk.
The authorities have pledged to intensify seismic monitoring and mapping of fault lines while developing early warning systems to improve community preparedness.
“The Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry, together with JMG and MetMalaysia, will also enhance scientific assessments of potential risk zones.
“These measures are part of a proactive approach to safeguard public safety, protect infrastructure, and ensure resilient development in earthquake-prone areas,” said JMG.
Fire and Rescue Department director-general Nor Hisham Mohammad said search and rescue teams have been placed on alert nationwide following the recent tremors.
Datuk Seri Nor Hisham stressed that the department has all the necessary equipment and expertise to respond to any disaster, including those caused by tremors.
He pointed out that there was already a National Disaster Action Plan which covered earthquakes.
“This is coordinated under the National Disaster Management Agency with the fire department as one of the lead rescue agency,” he told The Star.
Mr Nor Hisham said the department had not received any distress calls following the Aug 27 in Segamat.
Segamat was also hit with a 4.1-magnitude earthquake
On the department’s preparedness, Mr Nor Hisham said there were 655 personnel under its Special Tactical Operation and Rescue Malaysia deployed around the country.
“All our firemen have also undergone basic training on urban search and rescue too.” THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
