Mapping landslide events at Cameron Highlands, Malaysia in relation to land use, rainfall and elevation using Geographical Information System

Abstract

The Cameron Highlands as the name implies is subjected to high landslide vulnerability due to its geographical location in a hilly area. The principal factors contributing to the landslide events in Cameron Highlands have been identified as heavy rainfall and substantial land use changes, which include infrastructural development and agricultural practices. Thus, there is a need to map the landslide events that occurred in Cameron Highlands using Geographical Information Systems concerning rainfall, land use and elevation. The relevant data were collected from the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia, the Department of Town and Country Planning Malaysia, and the Public Works Department Malaysia. Based on the findings, with the average annual rainfall exceeding 2,687mm, massive agricultural activities on hilly terrain and infrastructure development along the main road, confirmed the occurrence of landslide events in Cameron Highlands. In addition, most of the landslide events occur at an elevation of more than 1,800m above sea level. By knowing the respective locations of previous landslide events, local authorities will be able to take earlier precautions in mitigating and planning future development related to agricultural activities and infrastructure besides providing early warning and useful information to the public at large.