Integrating Local Knowledge into Floods Impact Assessment: A Case Study from Gemereh, Segamat, Johor

Abstract

This study assesses the impact of floods on rural communities in Gemereh, Segamat, Johor, Malaysia, by integrating local knowledge into the assessment process. Malaysia. Unlike previous research that focused solely on hydrological models and government data, this study emphasizes community-based perspectives aligned with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030). The study, which surveyed 81 people in three villages, shows that using local knowledge such as providing river dredging priority along with improving drainage infrastructure provides more practical and locally-specific solutions. According to the results, 82% of respondents said that floods had a significant impact on their lives, mostly in terms of property losses and interruptions to regular activities like business operations, education, and transportation. The findings demonstrate weaknesses in currently flood management, highlighting the need for more all-encompassing, locally-based approaches that address infrastructure vulnerabilities and community preparedness. The research examined flood mitigation options, with residents suggesting river dredging, improvement of drainage systems, and the establishment of retention ponds. Most of the respondents suggested that the government should consider widening and dredging the river to reduce the impact of flooding. The findings highlight the significance of integrating local community knowledge into flood mitigation actions, as it offers important perspectives into specific risks and feasible mitigation alternatives compare conventional strategies. By emphasising local perceptions, policymakers and disaster management practitioners can create more focused, effective, and sustainable initiatives, thereby substantially improving community resilience and mitigating the negative effects of flooding.

Keywords: Flood; rural; mitigation; Malaysia; infrastructure; community

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