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Challenges of Using a Geographic Information System (GIS) in Managing Flash Floods in Shah Alam, Malaysia

Author

Listed:
  • Adam Narashman Leeonis

    (Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Minhaz Farid Ahmed

    (Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Mazlin Bin Mokhtar

    (Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia
    United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN) Asia Headquarters, Sunway University, Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, 5 Jalan Universiti, Petaling Jaya 47500, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Chen Kim Lim

    (Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Bijay Halder

    (Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia)

Abstract

A geographic information system (GIS) is a tool and technology capable of addressing the effects and challenges of natural disasters, particularly flash floods. GIS applications are used to generate flood risk maps to tackle flood issues. However, various challenges and problems arise when employing GIS to manage flash flood disasters in Shah Alam, Malaysia. Hence, this study aims to identify these challenges and gaps in GIS utilisation by Malaysian agencies for flash flood management in Shah Alam. Using the quadruple helix model technique, informal interviews were conducted as part of the study’s qualitative methodology. Five respondents were chosen from each of the four main sectors for primary data collection: government, academia, business, and community/NGO. The data were analysed using Taguette qualitative theme analysis. The findings reveal that the primary challenges lie in government management, particularly in providing equipment and access to GIS for all stakeholders, including the public. This challenge is attributed to the high costs and complexity associated with GIS data usage, limiting accessibility. Furthermore, there is a lack of expertise and research on GIS in Malaysian universities concerning flash flood management. The government should take proactive steps to improve flash flood management in Shah Alam, Malaysia, in order to solve these issues. Specifically, GIS training should be given to stakeholders, particularly those in the government and academic sectors, in order to develop GIS specialists who will be necessary for efficient flood management in Malaysia.

Suggested Citation

  • Adam Narashman Leeonis & Minhaz Farid Ahmed & Mazlin Bin Mokhtar & Chen Kim Lim & Bijay Halder, 2024. "Challenges of Using a Geographic Information System (GIS) in Managing Flash Floods in Shah Alam, Malaysia," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(17), pages 1-21, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:17:p:7528-:d:1467832
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    References listed on IDEAS

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