By JAMES LEONG
SANDAKAN: In response to increasing geological threats, Sabah is implementing two cutting-edge geospatial technologies to enhance disaster preparedness and optimize land development strategies across the state.
The National Geospatial Terrain and Slope Information System (NaTSIS) and Malaysian Minerals and Geoscience Geospatial Information System (MyGEM) were unveiled during a four-day workshop attended by representatives from 17 government departments this week.
Dr. Frederick Francis Tating, Director of Sabah’s Mineral and Geoscience Department (JMG), revealed that current geological assessments remain fragmented, with most data concentrated in high-risk zones including Kundasang, Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu.
“These new platforms provide comprehensive digital access to critical hazard information, transforming how we approach risk mitigation,” Dr. Frederick explained. “The systems will be particularly valuable for managing Sabah’s persistent challenges with landslides and seismic activity.”
Through collaborations with academic institutions and the Public Works Department, JMG has developed a Seismic Hazard Map that is now mandatory reference material for construction projects in vulnerable areas. The map highlights elevated risk zones including Kundasang, Ranau, Kudat and Lahad Datu.
Since 2016, the department has systematically mapped landslide-prone regions under a national initiative, with Sandakan’s ongoing slope stability study being the latest addition. Preliminary findings indicate potential risks in areas like Pecky Valley, where monitoring has been intensified.
The Rural Development Ministry has already integrated NaTSIS into its planning protocols, according to Deputy Permanent Secretary Patricia Vain.
“We now conduct mandatory geological hazard assessments for all proposed developments,” Vain stated. “This proactive approach prevents construction in danger zones, ultimately saving lives and resources.”
The Sabah Civil Defence Force (APM) is leveraging the systems to enhance its disaster management capabilities. Deputy Director Lt. Col. Erwin Kinsui confirmed the technology is being used for training simulations and community risk awareness programs.
“We’re establishing an integrated command centre that will utilize NaTSIS for live monitoring,” Kinsui revealed. “This will significantly improve our response coordination during emergencies.”
The implementation comes as Sabah experiences increased landslide activity following prolonged rainfall events this year, underscoring the urgent need for advanced risk management solutions.
Authorities anticipate full operationalization of both systems within the next fiscal year, marking a significant upgrade to the state’s disaster resilience framework.
access to critical hazard information.
