I’m Abdul Shukor bin Abdul Aziz working as Nuclear Regulator for the Department of Atomic Energy under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovtion (MOSTI). Over the past five months, I have had the privilege of participating in an intensive professional training programme in Japan focused on disaster management and resilience under Disaster Management Training Centre (DMTC), University of Tokyo. This experience has provided me with valuable exposure to Japan’s advanced disaster risk reduction systems, particularly in areas such as institutional coordination, emergency preparedness, early warning mechanisms, and the integration of technology into disaster response operations.
Throughout the programme, I learned how Japan applies a systematic, evidence-based, and safety-first approach to managing complex disasters, shaped by its extensive experience with earthquakes, tsunamis, and technological disasters. Key lessons included the importance of inter-agency coordination, standardized operating procedures, real-time information sharing, and the use of innovative technologies to enhance situational awareness while reducing risks to first responders.
Building on these lessons, my capstone project focused on the application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to strengthen disaster response capabilities, particularly in high-risk and hazardous environments. The project explored how UAVs equipped with sensors and real-time data transmission can be used to improve rapid assessment, mapping, and decision support, while minimizing human exposure to dangerous conditions. Inspired by Japan’s post-Fukushima use of robotics and unmanned systems, the project demonstrates how UAV-based surveillance can modernize disaster management practices, enhance responder safety, and support faster, more informed decision-making.
Overall, my experience in Japan has deepened my understanding of how technology, strong governance frameworks, and a culture of preparedness can significantly improve disaster management outcomes. These insights will be instrumental in strengthening disaster risk management and institutional capacity in my home country.