PETALING JAYA: A streamlined approach should be taken by all parties to tackle landslides, say experts. Institute of Geology Malaysia president Abd Rasid Jaafar said a consolidated effort across the board is necessary to curb further fatal instances of landslides.

       “This requires a hand-in-hand approach from government ministries and agencies alongside local municipal councils to create a safer environment especially for those living in landslide prone areas.

       “The public play an important role themselves by always taking heed of their surroundings, especially if they live close to landslide-prone areas,” he said, adding that regular surveillance and monitoring activities should also be done by the authorities in high-risk areas.

       A glaring sign of a potential landslide is when trees atop a slope begin to slant more than usual, said Abd Rasid.

       So, when the public notice these signs, they should promptly make a report to the authorities, he said.

       Abd Rashid noted that continuous efforts should be taken to educate those living in areas prone to landslides, either through workshops or even simulation activities, to ensure they are prepared.

       “Such lessons should also be integrated into the school curriculum to ensure students are well educated and have sufficient knowledge in the event of such disasters,” he said.

       Universiti Teknologi Malaysia’s Centre of Tropical Geoengineering (Geotropik) director Prof Dr Edy Tonnizam Mohamad said no one party could be blamed for such incidents and that a consolidated approach is the best way moving forward.

       “The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) should also take the lead and liaise with other agencies to ensure that a coordinated approach is taken towards resolving and minimising the risk of future landslides.”

       On the role of local municipal councils, he said a holistic approach could be taken via background checks on the historical data of the land to ascertain whether it is safe for upcoming developments.

       “This is where federal agencies and departments who have the expertise and manpower can step in to work alongside and guide the local authorities on the best decision to make,” he said, adding that this would greatly reduce the potential of landslides from occurring.

       The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) should also issue detailed information on rainfall and indicate whether it could bring about a higher risk of landslides in hilly areas, he said, adding that it is better to inform the public because it would help them make more well-informed decisions.

       He said Nadma should perform regular engagement works with communities living in landslide-prone areas to educate them on the risks and proper steps to take if it happens.

       On insurance coverage for landslides. a check on the General Insurance Association of Malaysia (PIAM) website shows that coverage from the basic fire policy could be extended to subsidence and landslip incidents.

       Policyholders are also advised to refer related enquiries to their agents or insurers.

       For submission of claims, policyholders are advised to notify their insurance companies as soon as possible and to provide a detailed written response.

       Early notification is also required to avoid any prejudice towards the claim.