Mitigating Urban Flood Risks: The Role of MSMA in Malaysia

In recent years, the world, including Malaysia, has witnessed a disturbing trend: an increase in storm intensities, attributed largely to global warming. This phenomenon has resulted in a marked rise in the frequency of flash floods and high wind velocities, leading to catastrophic damage to properties and, tragically, loss of life. In this blog, we will explore the “Urban Stormwater Drainage Design Procedure for Malaysia”, popularly known as the Manual Saliran Mesra Alam Malaysia (MSMA), and the associated challenges that Malaysian engineers face in its implementation.

Understanding MSMA

The MSMA serves as a crucial guideline published by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia (Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran Malaysia, JPS). By law, engineers in Malaysia are required to adhere to the specifications outlined in MSMA when designing drainage systems. One of the primary objectives of MSMA is to mitigate flash floods in Malaysia through a strategy known as control-at-source.

Key Objectives of MSMA

• Mitigation of Flash Floods: The MSMA aims to reduce the risk of flash floods in urban areas by advocating for better drainage design.
• Sustainable Drainage Solutions: The guidelines prioritize environmentally friendly solutions that protect natural landscapes.
• Public Safety: By implementing better drainage, the safety of residents is significantly enhanced, reducing the likelihood of disaster.

Challenges Facing Engineers in Implementing MSMA

Despite the noble objectives of MSMA, engineers encounter various practical difficulties in the application of its guidelines, particularly concerning the design of On-Site Detention (OSD) and detention basins. Some of the main challenges include:

1. Cost Factors: The construction and maintenance of OSD and detention basins can be costly, and budget constraints often impede proper implementation.
2. Land Reserve Requirements: Acquiring adequate land for these installations can be challenging, especially in densely populated urban areas.
3. Technical and Design Issues: Engineers often struggle with a lack of up-to-date tools and software, making compliance with MSMA more difficult.

Educational Resources and Workshops

To address the shortage of resources and training in the field, there is a growing demand for educational programs focused on the implementation of MSMA guidelines. Fortunately, Ir. Dr. Quek Keng Hong, a renowned expert on MSMA, conducts a series of workshops aimed at supplying engineers with the necessary technical training.

Key Benefits of the Workshops

These workshops not only focus on the technical requirements set by JPS but also provide practical, hands-on learning experiences. Participants are trained in:

• Optimizing the design of On-Site Detention (OSD) and detention basins to meet the requirements of approving authorities.
• Preparation of Erosion and Sediment Control Plans (ESCP).
• Hydrologic and Hydraulic Modelling for Urban Drainage Systems.

The workshops utilize laptop PCs and Excel spreadsheet templates, enabling engineers to apply learned concepts directly to their projects. Since their inception in 2000, thousands of professionals have benefitted from Dr. Quek’s expertise.

Conclusion and Further Resources

As urban areas in Malaysia continue to evolve, the necessity for effective stormwater management becomes increasingly crucial. The Manual Saliran Mesra Alam Malaysia provides essential guidelines aimed at mitigating flood risks, yet challenges remain in its implementation. Education and training through workshops led by established experts like Ir. Dr. Quek Keng Hong play a pivotal role in empowering engineers with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle these challenges.

For more information on upcoming workshops, visit: http://workshops.msmam.com/. Additionally, engineers can access free MSMA spreadsheets and tools at: https://free1.msmam.com/. To delve deeper into related topics, you can read about Detention Basins on LinkedIn at: https://social19.drquek.com and On-Site Detention (OSD) on Medium at: https://social20.drquek.com.