Developing Earthquake-Resistant Structural Design Standard for Malaysia Based on Eurocode 8: Challenges and Recommendations

In late 2017, the Malaysian National Annex (NA) to Eurocode 8 (EC8) was released and enacted following some 13 years of deliberations preparations. The authors this paper aim use article share their experiences reflections during period developing first national standard for seismic design buildings Malaysia. To begin with, there were major challenges in implementing 20-year-old EC8 framework a country so far away from Europe. challenge adapting probabilistic hazard assessment (PSHA) methodology low-to-moderate seismicity region where paucity representative data presented great deal uncertainties. address situation, imposing minimum level recommended. second about dealing with outdated site classification scheme, which poorly represents potential effects soil amplification certain geological settings. an alternative scheme natural is explicit modelling parameter introduced. third concerned difficulties generated by provisions mandating Ductility Class Medium (DCM) detailing localities predicted exceed threshold. viable option using strength trade off ductility recommended, or cases needed, simplified set code-compliant DCM designs presented. fourth handling requirements that majority are involve dynamic analysis structural when practising professionals did not have skills exercising proper requisite software. generalized force method introduced control commercial It hoped that, through sharing lessons learnt, code drafters future would be able find ways circumventing multitude clear thinking pragmatism.