"Exploring Geohazards and Recreational Safety: A Day at the CTRE Program"

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a fascinating Continuous Tourism Related Education (CTRE) program, titled Pengenalan Bencana Geologi (Geohazard) dan Pengurusan Rekreasi Batu Kapur (Introduction to Geologic Hazards and Limestone Recreation Management) in Bahasa Malaysia. This immersive session awarded participants with 2 CTREs and offered a deep dive into understanding geohazards, particularly in limestone recreational areas. The program, held at Perbadanan Taman Negeri Perak, was a blend of classroom learning and hands-on fieldwork at the Gunung Lang Recreational Park, providing a comprehensive understanding of geological risks and their management.

The morning kicked off with an engaging classroom session led by the distinguished speaker, P Geol. Ts. Ir. Dr. Goh Thian Lai. As a senior lecturer at UKM and Head of UKM Rock Mechanics Laboratory, Dr. Goh's expertise and affiliations with the Society of Engineering Geology and Rock Mechanics (SEGRM) were evident throughout the program. His insights were invaluable as he delved into the distinctions between hazards and disasters before introducing us to the realm of geohazards.

From earthquakes to tsunamis, typhoons, and landslides, the spectrum of geohazards was unveiled. What stood out was the detailed exploration of geohazards related to limestone cave systems and mountainous recreational areas. The session was more than just theory; it involved hands-on activities to identify potential hazard areas within limestone recreational spots, setting the stage for the practical afternoon fieldwork.

Post-lunch, our journey transitioned to the Gunung Lang Recreational Park, where the hands-on application of our morning learnings took place. Divided into groups, armed with tools like whiteboards, markers, and sketch papers, we were tasked with identifying hazardous stone formations within the park. Mapping these out on sketch papers and later transferring our findings to whiteboards turned out to be a collaborative and insightful exercise.

The presentations that followed were not just about showcasing our findings; they were learning opportunities. Dr. Goh provided valuable feedback, confirming certain hazardous areas and guiding us where our assessments needed adjustments. The classification of landslides was a revelation, discovering seven distinct types that fell under this category, reshaping our understanding of these geological phenomena.

However, what truly struck a chord were the real-world examples shared during the session. Learning about events like the Highland Tower and Batang Kali landslide in Malaysia underscored the critical need for proper analysis and expert involvement in any project, particularly in recreational areas vulnerable to geohazards.

Moreover, the meticulous process behind stalactite formation, taking 50 years to grow just one centimeter, served as a reminder of the slow yet impactful forces shaping our surroundings. Furthermore, this program was an eye-opener, emphasizing the importance of considering weather conditions and suitability before initiating any recreational activity.

In retrospect, the CTRE program not only expanded my knowledge but also instilled a sense of responsibility when it comes to recreational safety. It highlighted the significance of expert analysis, weather assessment, and thorough planning in ensuring the safety and enjoyment of recreational spaces for everyone.

This insightful day-long training session has left me eager for more such programs that blend theory with practical application, equipping individuals with the knowledge and awareness to create safer and more enjoyable recreational spaces for all.