COMPREHENSIVE geological mapping will be carried out along roads and in other areas to detect potential sinkhole threats, with the Federal and state governments expected to work closely with local authorities.
Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar said the decision was made at the 51st National Physical Planning Council (MPFN) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya on Monday.
He said sinkhole threats required serious attention, particularly in assessing risks and improving early detection to protect lives, ensure public safety and minimise potential losses.
“Various matters were discussed at this afternoon's MPFN meeting, and the issue or threat of sinkholes was of particular concern to me.
“Serious attention must be given, especially to risk assessment and the ability to detect sinkhole threats, as these involve lives, safety and potential losses,” he said in a Facebook post.
Meanwhile, Anwar said close cooperation between the Federal and state governments was essential to ensuring inclusive, sustainable and comprehensive national development.
In a Facebook post, Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the meeting reviewed various aspects of national physical development, including land-use planning and State Structure Plans, in accordance with the Town and Country Planning Act 1976 (Act 172).
“All relevant parties must continue to improve service delivery to strengthen the investment ecosystem and make dealings easier for the people,” he said. - October 13, 2026