SEGAMAT: A mild earthquake measuring 3.2 on the Richter scale that struck Segamat, Johor on Wednesday (Aug 27) has raised fresh attention on the region’s seismic vulnerabilities.
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, adding 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.
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 (NRES), 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,” it added
