KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's iconic landmarks, including the Petronas Twin Towers (KLCC) and Merdeka 118, were built to international standards to withstand natural forces such as tremors and strong winds common in the region.

Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) senior general manager for technology and business development, Ir Rofizlan Ahmad, said this was factored in despite Malaysia not being in a major earthquake zone.

For example, he said the KLCC building uses a double-deck skybridge system that channels forces between the two towers in the event of tremors, while deep foundation piles help stabilise the structure.

"As for Merdeka 118, it was built with more modern technology using an outrigger structural system that connects the building's main core to the outer columns, along with high-performance materials that enable it to withstand strong winds and moderate tremors," he told Berita Harian.

Featured Videos

Rofizlan added that earthquake-resistant buildings are usually designed with consideration for the 'seismic load' or tremor forces that could potentially occur in the area.

"Its main features include the use of strong foundation structures, vibration dampers, flexible building materials that can absorb impact, and modern design methods that allow slight movement without affecting overall stability," he said.

When asked about CIDB's role in ensuring the country's iconic buildings remain safe and solid, he said the agency ensures full industry compliance with construction standards.

"This includes compliance with building material quality standards as stated under the Fourth Schedule of Act 520, and ensuring that skilled construction workers are registered and accredited by CIDB.

"The list of skill areas that must be accredited is outlined in the Third Schedule of Act 520.

"The responsibility for technical monitoring and structural inspections to ensure the safety and stability of buildings lies with the local authorities (PBT), professional engineers and building owners.

"CIDB always works closely with various technical agencies, industry experts and standards bodies to ensure that the country's infrastructure is built and maintained at the highest safety levels," he said.

Malaysia is located near Indonesia, which lies within the Pacific Ring of Fire, making the neighbouring country prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes.

A mild tremor measuring 3.2 on the Richter scale was reported in Segamat, Johor, on Aug 27, following an earlier 4.1-magnitude quake at the same location on Aug 23, raising questions about the resilience of the country's skyscrapers, particularly KLCC and Merdeka 118.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) recorded another 4.1-magnitude quake on Aug 24. Additional tremors were detected throughout the week, with magnitudes ranging between 2.7 and 4.1.