Volcanic Activity in Malaysia

This week's focus on volcanoes further explores the ever-present risks of natural hazards present in our modern, civilized world. Not surprisingly, around 2/3 of the world's volcanic activity occurs within the Pacific "Ring of Fire," which coincides with many of the planet's most active plate boundaries (Keller/DeVecchio, 131). The volcanoes traced around this "ring of fire" vary in type of volcanic rock produced, and severity/activity.
Volcanic activity is not only present in the country of Malaysia, but also in surrounding nations like Indonesia and the Philippines, which tend to experience some of the most disastrous volcanic activity on the planet. Naturally, all the above nations are within proximity of the infamous "Ring of Fire". Therefore, Malaysia is threatened by volcanic activity much like it is threatened by seismic activity (earthquakes). Malaysia has only one "possibly active" volcano, the Bombalai Volcano, which is considered explosive. It is currently dormant but still possesses the capability of destruction if its dormant status is interrupted by plate activity. Nearby volcanoes in neighboring countries also pose a significant threat, as ash and other debris can travel great distances, blanketing cities and destroying property.
The most recent volcanic activity near Malaysia has been occurring in Sinabung, Indonesia, which is considered to be an ongoing safety hazard. So far, the Sinabung volcano expunged ash 10,000-14,000 feet in the air, travelling southwest. This is not in the direction of Malaysia, but had the air carried the ash further north, and at a greater capacity, Malaysia could certainly be threatened. It is not likely, but Malaysia is not exempt from volcanic hazards although they are relatively safe in regards to volcanoes.
Because of the dormant status of the Bombalai volcano, Malaysia does not have any explicit measures posted online about how to protect oneself from the threat of earthquakes, but certain safety measures will indeed be taken if a significant threat is detected. Warning the public, particularly the locals affected by the disaster, is the first plan of defense Malaysia will take to protect its citizens from impending natural disasters. National Geographic, however, has posted several safety measures to take in the event of volcanic activity. Besides evacuating via the routes indicated (avoiding "debris, mud flows, and lava"), it is important to have "emergency items like flashlights, radios, and even facial masks". It is also important to seal off any places where ash or debris entering the home may be possible.

Sources:

• http://volcano.si.edu/reports_weekly.cfm#vn_261080
• https://www.volcanodiscovery.com/malaysia.html
• http://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/natural-disasters/volcano-safety-tips/