Geodynamic activity of Malaysia: Insight from space-based technology and knowledge driven approach

Malaysia situated within the buffer zone of the Pacific Ring of Fire, is vulnerable to seismic hazards as a result of the prevalence of geodynamic activities in Southeast Asia within the past decade particularly since the 8.9 Mw Megathrust in 2004. Prolonged plates activities have been resulting in the on-land lineament along the mid-ridges of the peninsular since the Paleozoic period. In this study, we explored the space-based technology in particular the positioning data and high resolution satellite images, which are crucial for analyzing the past and present geodynamic activity in the tropics. Coupled with efficient GIS processing routine, the geophysical events are carefully mapped, monitored and modeled. An expert knowledge and field investigation provide substantial steps forward into an effective interpretation and decision making process. This study highlights the geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) as a promising and valuable tool in characterizing and assessing seismo-tectonic related disasters in an equatorial region.