A decade after tsunami, Penang lawmaker urges Malaysians to reflect on lessons

A fisherman walking on a jetty in Kota Kuala Muda, Kedah. Kota Kuala Muda was one of the affected areas in the Indian Ocean tsunami tragedy a decade ago. – The Malaysian Insider pic by Hasnoor Hussain, December 25, 2014. 

Malaysians reeled in shock 10 years ago when the tsunami hit the country's shores, but out of the tragedy comes lessons for the nation to reflect on, a Penang lawmaker has said.

Bukit Bendera MP Zairil Khir Johari said today that the 2004 tsunami had taught Malaysians that natural disasters did not recognise man-made boundaries and could devastate anyone regardless of their nationality.

"A day before the incident, no one knew that a small town by Sungai Muda would soon gain the attention of the world and the country.

"In Penang, everyone was busy entertaining tourists and relatives who were preparing to celebrate."

But disaster struck and the giant waves crashed into Tanjong Bungah, Batu Feringhi, Teluk Bahang and Pulau Betong. No one could forget how it claimed 52 lives, with five more reported missing, injured 2006 people, and destroyed 615 homes and 1,332 boats, he said.

"Since then, our views on national disasters that occur within our region have changed.

"Now we understand better that a disaster which occurs thousands of kilometres away can also reach our shores.

"We are now more prepared and more respectful of the unpredictable power of mother nature."

He added that while such natural disasters could not be avoided, Malaysians have learned to minimise its impact.

"Now we have more appreciation for the mangrove forests that act as a natural barricade from such devastation, are more careful about developments by the sea."

Zairil urged Malaysians to remember the victims of the tsunami and pray that the country would be more prepared for any future challenges.

"May we not weaken at all the obstacles that befall us, and instead become stronger and unite because of it."

- TMI