Tsunami Readiness in Kudat, Sabah: Examining Community Trust, Risk Perception, and Preparedness

¹ Centre for Research and Innovation Management, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
² Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Research Centre, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
³ Community and Nation Building, Yayasan Telekom Malaysia, Level 6, TM Annexe 2, Jalan Pantai Jaya, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

^* Corresponding author: n.diyana@upnm.edu.my

Abstract

One of the emerging critical concerns on disaster risk reduction is tsunami preparedness as its impact is substantial to damaging infrastructure and to cause loss of lives. Kudat located at the tip of Sabah is an area that is prone to a tsunami disaster originating from either the Brunei Slide, Sulu Sea, or from the Marina Trench. Although there have been efforts to increase their awareness and preparedness, there remains a lack of localised studies exploring how community level factors affect disaster readiness. Thus, this study aims to address the gap by examining socio-economic factors, trust in agencies, risk perception, intention to prepare and preparedness of the local community in Kudat. The study employed a quantitative approach through self-administered questionnaires among local leaders and members of the community. Data obtained was then analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to identify their perceptions and patterns. Preliminary findings indicate that there is a positive perception towards the agencies, intention to prepare and have taken necessary steps to prepare for a tsunami disaster. However, financial preparedness is expected to be impeded due to their average household income. The findings suggest that the community can be prepared with the right intervention by the local government and agencies however their financial capacity could affect their recovery. This study offers practical recommendations for policy and capacity building efforts that can be adapted in other tsunami prone areas. The importance of how locally driven strategies is underlined in study to enhance tsunami preparedness and community resilience.