The Use of Satellite Information for Disaster Management in Malaysia

Rodzi Md. Saad
Principal Assistant Secretary
Crisis & Disaster Management Division
National Security Council
Malaysia

Abstract
Each year natural disasters result in serious economic and social impacts to the affected countries. When disasters strike, housing, schools, hospitals, government buildings, roads and bridges, agricultural crops and livelihoods are damaged and destroyed. Natural hazards are inevitable, however measures can be taken to reduce the severity and extent of the impact of disaster events. These measures will increase community resilience, and reduce their vulnerability to the effects of hazards. Information technology by using satellite data and related technologies applications can be use for effective disaster management. Agensi Remote Sensing Malaysia is a governmental department being entrusted for the development and application of remote sensing in disaster management for the nation. This agency has introduced the Integrated Geospatial Database and Planning System (IGDP) in mid 2007 with the objective to establish a central system in the country for collecting, storing, processing, analyzing and disseminating value added data and information to support the relevant agencies in the mitigation and relief activities of disaster management. The initiative has enabled all government agencies to be well prepared in handling disaster information with the use of Geographical Information System and Global Positioning System technologies.