Environmental and socioeconomic dynamics of the Indian Ocean tsunami in Penang, Malaysia

Abstract

This paper addresses some of the environmental and socioeconomic dimensions of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami on Penang, Malaysia. We aim to offer wide access to unique and perishable data, while at the same time providing insight to ongoing debates about hazards, vulnerability and social capital. Our social survey examines some of the dynamics that shaped the tsunami impact, response and recovery process. While in terms of lives lost Penang may not conform to arguments surrounding vulnerable environments, the recovery process is more marked by social disparities in terms of the ability to access resources. Our physical survey records local topography, flow depth and flow direction, and charts the differential impact of the tsunami. Yet measuring hazards is not a straightforward process, and relies on reflexive methodologies and eyewitness accounts.

The comparative analysis of investor sentiment effect on two major earthquakes and tsunami incidents

“…However, they mention that the fishing and tourism industries in both countries were influenced badly by the incident. Horton et al (2008) imply that fisherfolk and coastal businesses in Malaysia are also economically impacted by the event. According to Ramiah (2013), the equity markets are resilient to the Boxing Day Tsunami event.…”

Coastal science for post-tsunami reconstruction

“…The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami resulted in diverse physical, environmental and socioeconomic impacts along different coastline types and affected numerous developing nations’ coasts (Bird et al, 2007; Horton et al, 2008). Increased urbanization along these coasts enhances the risk to communities and the built environment of tsunamis and storms.…”

Disasters in Social, Cultural and Political Context

“…Many social scientists now reject the popular terminology of 'natural disasters' and stress that while 'hazards' are natural, 'disasters' are not (Horton et al, 2008). A disaster occurs when an extreme event exceeds a community's ability to cope with that event (Lindell and Prater, 2003;Prater et al, 2004;Pyles, 2007).…”