Over RM550,000 Allocated for Repairs to 15 Government Buildings Damaged in Segamat Quake

SEGAMAT, Sept 8: The government has estimated repair costs of RM550,500 for 15 public buildings in Segamat that sustained minor damage following a series of weak earthquakes recorded between August 24 and 30.

Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Maslan said the findings were based on a technical inspection by the Segamat Public Works Department (JKR), completed on September 3. The affected buildings include Segamat Hospital, Bandar Putra Health Clinic, Segamat Community College, the District Kadi Office, several schools, and government quarters.

“Most of the damage involves existing cracks that have expanded due to the tremors. However, the structural integrity of the buildings remains unaffected. They are safe to use, and occupants have been advised to stay alert and report any new cracks or structural changes to JKR,” Ahmad told reporters after receiving a disaster briefing and visiting the damaged sites.

He said repair works would be financed through allocations from the relevant ministries, while JKR will provide technical support to ensure repairs are carried out effectively. The department’s Disaster Operations Room was activated immediately after the first tremor on August 24 and has been monitoring the situation round-the-clock.

“No damage has been detected on roads and bridges. Monitoring covered 325 kilometers of federal roads, 242 kilometers of state roads, and 71 bridges and flyovers within the quake-affected area,” he added.

Ahmad also noted that seismic safety measures have been incorporated into the design of government buildings and bridges since the enforcement of the MS EN 1998 National Annex in September 2017. “All new projects under the 12th Malaysia Plan are constructed with high-quality materials and designed to match the seismic levels of their respective areas,” he said.

Separately, the Segamat District Office confirmed receiving 62 reports of minor damage to private homes and two suraus, though the estimated losses have yet to be finalized.