Perak records 11 out of 24 sinkholes reported in last five years

KUALA LUMPUR: The Mineral and Geoscience Department recorded 24 sinkhole cases from 2019 to 2024, with Perak reporting the highest number at 11 cases, according to the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES).

A written reply posted on the Parliament website said three incidents each were recorded in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, two in Kelantan, and one each in Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Selangor, Melaka and Perlis.

“This ministry remains committed to efforts in reducing geological disaster risks in development areas involving geologically sensitive sinkhole-prone zones to ensure public safety,” NRES said.

The ministry was replying to Datuk Che Mohamad Zulkifly Jusoh (PN-Besut), who asked the ministry to disclose the number of sinkhole incidents reported in the country over the past five years and the ministry’s efforts to address the issue.

The ministry also stated that the department will provide assessments on geological hazards and risks and is involved in formulating standards for national development planning at all levels.

The ministry also affirmed its support for any review of development standards related to geologically sensitive areas at risk to disasters, particularly sinkhole-prone zones.

“The key information that must be emphasised is the geological data of the development site, which serves as the basis for preparing development proposal and geotechnical reports,” the ministry added. – Bernama