JKR Intensifies Monitoring of High-Risk Slopes During Northeast Monsoon, Says Nanta

The Public Works Department (JKR) is ramping up surveillance and inspections on high-risk slopes nationwide as the Northeast Monsoon sets in, according to Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. The increased monitoring aims to detect early warning signs of slope failures and ensure drainage systems remain fully functional throughout the rainy season.

Speaking during the Dewan Rakyat’s ministerial question time on Thursday, Nanta said JKR will deploy enhanced patrols and conduct more frequent inspections at all identified very high-risk slopes, particularly in areas susceptible to heavy rainfall and soil movement.

Early Warning System Activated With Real-Time Data

“To monitor surface movement on slopes, current warning thresholds will be published on the JKR Landslide Early Warning System, and early notifications will be shared with district and state JKR offices as well as relevant stakeholders,” Nanta said.

He added that the system integrates:

• Rainfall data from the Early Warning System

• Movement-sensor readings installed on critical slopes

This combination enables JKR to issue quicker, more accurate alerts in the event of abnormal ground movement.

Over 34,000 Slopes Identified; 1,572 Classified as Very High-Risk

As of today, JKR has inventoried 34,633 slopes across Malaysia. Out of these, 1,572 locations have been categorised as very high-risk, requiring the most intensive monitoring and maintenance measures.

Nanta also reported that JKR’s Slope Engineering Branch recently completed the collection of hazard and risk-mapping data for slopes along state roads in Peninsular Malaysia—a study covering 2,100 kilometres of road.

Comprehensive Measures Before, During, and After Monsoon Incidents

In preparation for the monsoon period, JKR has put in place a three-phase strategy involving:

1. Pre-Disaster Measures

• Early detection of slope instability

• Ensuring drainage lines are clear and functional

2. During-Disaster Actions

• Clearing debris and ensuring access routes remain passable

• Implementing traffic management plans and identifying alternative routes

3. Post-Disaster Recovery

• Immediate temporary stabilisation using polypropylene sheets on failed slopes

• Follow-up with permanent slope repair and strengthening works

“These actions are crucial to maintaining the safety of federal roads and slopes,” Nanta stressed.

Relevance to Klang Valley’s Development & Infrastructure Landscape

Slope stability and monsoon-readiness are critical for infrastructure reliability—especially in rapidly developing regions such as:

• Commercial property in KL

• Office space in Bukit Jalil

• Industrial land in Selangor

• Factory zones in Puchong

• Industrial property in the Subang area

These growth areas rely heavily on safe, uninterrupted road connectivity and resilient engineering systems to support ongoing development and logistics movements.