Sea level rise is a major concern in Malaysia, as the country has a long coastline and many low-lying areas that are vulnerable to flooding and coastal erosion. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projections, sea levels in the region are likely to rise between 0.26 and 0.82 meters (about 10 to 32 inches) by the end of the century. This, combined with the fact that Malaysia experiences tropical storms and typhoons that can generate high waves and storm surges, could exacerbate the flood and erosion risks in the country.
In Malaysia, sea level rise is expected to affect low-lying coastal areas, small islands, and estuaries, which are home to many communities and important ecosystems. According to a study, the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia is particularly vulnerable to sea level rise, as it is low-lying and has a large population density. The study also predicts that the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak will also be affected by sea level rise, with the potential for severe impacts on infrastructure, property, and human settlements.
The impacts of sea level rise in Malaysia are likely to include more frequent and severe coastal flooding, shoreline erosion, and saltwater intrusion into freshwater resources. These impacts can affect infrastructure, property, and ecosystems, as well as human health and well-being. The coastal areas of Malaysia are also important for fisheries, tourism, and other economic activities, so sea level rise could also have significant economic impacts.
To address the challenges posed by sea level rise in Malaysia, the government and other organizations have implemented a range of adaptation measures, including building sea walls, relocating critical infrastructure, and elevating buildings. However, more needs to be done to address the problem and to create more resilient coastal regions. The government of Malaysia has also committed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which are the main driver of sea level rise, and to promote sustainable development in coastal areas.
Overall, sea level rise is a complex and pressing issue in Malaysia, and it requires a multifaceted response, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, implementing adaptation measures, and educating the public and policymakers about the risks and opportunities associated with sea level rise.
Malaysia is also working to improve its monitoring and early warning systems to better predict and respond to sea level rise and coastal flooding. For example, the National Hydraulic Research Institute of Malaysia (NAHRIM) operates a network of tide gauges and water level monitoring stations along the coast to monitor sea level and tide conditions. Additionally, Malaysia’s Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) is responsible for managing and maintaining the country’s drainage and irrigation systems, which are critical for reducing the risk of flooding.
There is also research being conducted in Malaysia on the impacts of sea level rise and potential adaptation strategies. For example, researchers at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia have conducted studies on the potential impacts of sea level rise on the country’s coastlines, and have developed models to predict future sea level rise and coastal flooding. Additionally, the university is researching on the integration of traditional knowledge and modern technology in flood risk management.
It’s also worth noting that, as sea level rise is a global issue, international cooperation is needed to effectively address it. Malaysia is a member of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and is also a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which aims to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere to prevent dangerous climate change.
In conclusion, sea level rise is a significant concern in Malaysia due to the country’s long coastline, tropical storms, and typhoons. The government, research institutions and other organizations are working to understand and address the challenges posed by sea level rise, but more needs to be done to create more resilient coastal regions. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing adaptation measures are crucial for addressing sea level rise in Malaysia, as well as educating the public and policymakers about the risks and opportunities associated with sea level rise.