"Of the 12 megathrust segments in Indonesia, two have the highest potential risk," said Prof. Fauzan from the Faculty of Engineering at Andalas University during a disaster workshop titled "Megathrust Disaster Risk Assessment" in Indonesia in Padang, West Sumatra, on Saturday.
Fauzan, who also chairs the 3rd International Conference on Disaster Mitigation and Management (ICDMM) 2025, identified the two zones as the Sunda Strait Megathrust and the Mentawai-Siberut Megathrust.
According to him, both zones pose a significant earthquake risk that could also trigger tsunamis, given Indonesia's location along the Pacific Ring of Fire.
The Pacific Ring of Fire is where three major tectonic plates meet — the Indo-Australian, Eurasian, and Pacific. This convergence results in intense seismic and volcanic activity, with the risk of earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.
"Megathrust earthquakes are the strongest type of earthquake that occurs in subduction zones," Fauzan explained.
He said tectonic plate movements in these areas can cause energy buildup that, if released suddenly, could trigger a massive earthquake and tsunami.
Citing scientific studies, Fauzan pointed out that the Mentawai-Siberut Megathrust is considered one of the most dangerous seismic gaps in the world. Since the major quakes of 1797 and 1833, the zone has not released significant energy.
"We do not want this to happen, but the potential is real and we must anticipate it," he stressed.
Historical records show that the 1797 and 1833 earthquakes caused severe damage and heavy casualties in Padang City.
Fauzan added that expert analysis suggests the Mentawai-Siberut Megathrust could generate an earthquake of up to magnitude 9.
"Researchers from BRIN and BMKG confirm that this zone contains significant energy and could cause a major disaster," he said.
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Translator: Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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