A community-based disaster risk management framework for chemical emergency preparedness in Johor, Malaysia

Purpose – The purpose of this community-based disaster risk management (CBDRM) framework is to enhance community resilience in Johor by empowering residents as self-reliant first responders. It aims to provide locals with the necessary knowledge and resources for self-sufficiency during initial disaster phases, while establishing robust communication and coordination protocols with multiple agencies. By synchronizing local action with formal emergency services, the framework intends to create a seamless, multilevel response system that minimizes vulnerability during the critical onset of a crisis. Design/methodology/approach – This study employed a Participatory Action Research design within a CBDRM framework in four local communities in Johor Bahru, Malaysia from 2019 to 2023. By synthesizing administrative records with qualitative experiential insights, the methodology facilitated "bottom-up" knowledge production through participant observation and group discussions. The process followed four iterative cycles – preparation, risk assessment, planning and validation. Finally, a SWOT analysis evaluated implementation, addressing systemic barriers to ensure the framework's replicability and transferability for future initiatives. Findings – Findings indicate that Johor's CBDRM framework successfully institutionalized community participation within public health preparedness. Collaborative risk mapping and simulation drills improved operational readiness and cross-sector trust. A SWOT analysis revealed that while bottom-up design fostered significant self-reliance, funding constraints and infrastructure gaps remain critical barriers. Overall, the study demonstrates that aligning local knowledge with formal agency protocols creates a scalable, resilient model capable of bridging the coordination gap during the initial phases of a disaster. Originality/value – This study offers a novel contribution by institutionalizing a CBDRM framework specifically within a public health system to manage complex chemical and technological hazards. Unlike traditional models focused solely on natural disasters, this research demonstrates the feasibility of codesigning localized response protocols for industrial risks. By integrating a structured SWOT analysis with participatory digital mapping, the study provides a unique, scalable methodology for bridging the coordination gap between grassroots residents and formal emergency agencies, establishing a replicable blueprint for multi-hazard resilience in rapidly industrializing regions.