High-rise buildings may need to be quake-proof
29/03/2007 The Star

ROMPIN: The Government is studying the possibility of compelling future high-rise buildings to be able to withstand certain degree of tremors from the frequent earthquakes in the region, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jamaluddin Jarjis said.

“Of late, we have been experiencing tremors due to the shifting of the epicentre of the earthquakes to the central part of Sumatra.

“This has resulted in our high-rise buildings experiencing aftershocks due to the proximity to our country,” he said.

Dr Jamaluddin said a special technical committee meeting followed by an Asean Ministerial meeting would be held next month and in May to discuss the impact of earthquakes and tsunami on the country.

He said based on the outcome of the meetings, his ministry would forward a proposal to the relevant ministries such as Housing and Local Government and Public Works Department on the need to amend the regulations governing high-rise buildings.