Why MSMA and On-Site Detention Matter More Than Ever in Malaysia
Storm patterns around the world are getting more intense — and Malaysia is feeling the heat. Thanks to global warming, we’re seeing more frequent flash floods and stronger winds, leading to serious property damage and even loss of lives. To tackle these issues, Malaysia’s Department of Irrigation and Drainage (Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran Malaysia, or JPS) developed the Manual Saliran Mesra Alam Malaysia (MSMA), also known as the Urban Stormwater Drainage Design Procedure for Malaysia. This is the official drainage design guideline, and by law, all engineers must follow it when planning urban drainage systems.
Understanding the Importance of MSMA
The increasing severity of weather events makes it vital for Malaysia to adopt robust drainage strategies. The MSMA introduces a systematic approach to managing stormwater effectively through various methodologies. Among its primary strategies is control-at-source, which means managing stormwater right where it falls. This involves systems like:
- On-Site Detention (OSD) systems
- Detention basins and ponds
Implementing these strategies is not without its challenges. Engineers often struggle with several factors:
Challenges in Implementation
- Limited land space for detention structures
- High construction and maintenance costs
- Design complexity and compliance hurdles
Moreover, the lack of local references, tools, or ready-to-use software complicates the process further. There’s an urgent need for more support, training, and practical resources that can help engineers design efficient systems.
Enter Ir. Dr. Quek Keng Hong
Recognizing the need for guidance in mastering these techniques, a key figure has emerged in this arena: Ir. Dr. Quek Keng Hong. A highly respected MSMA expert, Dr. Quek has been running hands-on workshops since 2000, during which thousands of engineers have gathered to gain invaluable insights into designing effective, MSMA-compliant stormwater systems.
What Do the Workshops Offer?
These laptop-based workshops provide participants with hands-on experiences that help demystify the complexities of urban drainage design. Here, attendees learn through real-world case studies and utilize useful tools such as Excel templates to design and optimize:
- OSD systems
- Detention basins
- Erosion and Sediment Control Plans (ESCP)
- Hydrologic and Hydraulic models for urban drainage
Whether you’re an engineer, consultant, or urban planner, these workshops are an essential step in mastering MSMA design standards.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
In a world where environmental challenges are growing, staying updated with the latest knowledge and tools is crucial for success. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to bolster your skillset and ensure that Malaysia’s infrastructure can withstand the storms of tomorrow.
Join the Movement!
Ready to enhance your understanding and application of MSMA and on-site detention? Here’s how you can get involved:
- ???? Check out upcoming workshops: http://workshops.msmam.com/
- ???? Download free MSMA tools and spreadsheets: http://drquekinternetmarketingconsultancy.com/Indication/get.php?id=msma1
Let’s pave the way to a robust and resilient future for urban areas in Malaysia by embracing effective stormwater management practices!
