On 11 August 2024, Sinar Harian reported that Malaysians living in Japan had begun making preparations following a mega earthquake warning issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The warning created tension and heightened alertness, although the tremors felt in Tokyo at the time were minor.

Kamal Zharif Kamaludin, a 37-year-old tour conductor residing in Tokyo, stated that the Japanese government had distributed notices advising residents to be prepared with supplies of dried food and water. He also felt slight tremors but reported no injuries or serious damage.

Although the situation was considered under control at that moment, the earthquake warning was issued to allow people to make early preparations. Some residents anticipate the possibility of a high-magnitude earthquake, ranging between eight and nine on the Richter scale, within the next 30 years. Therefore, preparations are deemed necessary even though the event has not yet occurred.

Kamal shared several precautionary measures he practises:

• Protecting the head with a pillow or taking cover under a table during tremors. If suitable furniture is unavailable, he uses his hands for protection.

• Preparing long-lasting food, such as energy bars, canned food that can be eaten directly, and rice that only needs reheating.

• Fully charging power banks and keeping a safety kit along with other necessities ready in case of emergencies.

In conclusion, this clearly illustrates how Malaysians in Japan have started taking practical steps to face the possibility of a major earthquake. The focus is on stockpiling essential supplies, ensuring physical protection during tremors, and planning for crisis situations. Such preparations are crucial as natural disasters like earthquakes cannot be predicted accurately, and readiness is the key to personal and family safety.

Sources: sinarharian.com

Date of Input: 07/05/2025 | Updated: 11/08/2025 | aslamiah