A Step Toward Developing Risk-Targeted Seismic Design Maps for Malaysia. Part 1: A Representative Exposure Model

Seismic risk assessment and loss evaluation are crucial for making informed decisions to mitigate the impacts of earthquakes. A consistent exposure model is a critical component of this process. This article aims to present a comprehensive exposure model for residential buildings in low seismic regions. Specifically, this article offers a representative exposure model for residential buildings on Penang Island, Malaysia, serving as a foundational step in the development of new risk maps. The exposure model was predicated on a mini scheme derived from GEM Building taxonomy, categorising buildings into 42 construction classes according to the characteristics that influence seismic performance. Each class is represented by a reference building designed based on current local practices and assumptions from IEM projects. Subsequent companion papers will use this developed exposure model to probabilistically assess seismic risk and create new seismic risk maps for Malaysia.