Slope stabilization works in Mukim Jempol, Negeri Sembilan

In recent years, Malaysia has been prioritizing sustainability in slope engineering practices. A key objective is to promote sustainable site vegetation on road slopes, both for new constructions and repair works.

One such project involves a cut slope along the only road linking Pertang and Batu Kikir Towns in Jempol. A slide on the road slope, caused by a high groundwater level within the residual soil, occurred during heavy rainfall. Given the critical importance of the road network to Jempol’s residents, remedial works needed to be completed swiftly.

The solution involved slope stabilization techniques including soil nails and horizontal drains. While soil nails with shotcrete facing are common in Malaysia, the Public Works Department (JKR) sought a facing that would blend with the surrounding landscape. This led to the adoption of flexible facing, which comes in roll form and offers quicker installation compared to shotcrete.

The design of the flexible facing adhered to the requirements of BS 8006-2:2011, comprising High Strength Steel Mesh and Ropes, specifically MacMat R and HEA Panel. Maccaferri’s web-based software, Mac-S, facilitated a hybrid method for the design.

The selection of the coating was based on Annex A of BS 10223-3:2013 for a 50-year design life, considering Malaysia’s minimum site environmental level of C3 (medium aggressive).