TerraLynx 3D: A WebGIS-Integrated Terrain and Sediment Modeling Framework for Dormant Hazard Monitoring in Cameron Highlands Mohamad Faisal Mohamed Yusof (a*), Syahidah Fariza Moh Esa (a), Siti Muazah Md Zin (b), Nurul Nadia Abd Malek (c) and Hasni Halim (d)
(a) Research Officer, ICT Development and Geoinformatics Division, Malaysian Space Agency, Malaysia
*faisal[at]mysa.gov.my
(b) Research Officer, Strategic Application Division , Malaysian Space Agency, Malaysia
(c) Research Officer, Strategic Planning and Communication Division , Malaysian Space Agency, Malaysia
(d) Director, ICT Development and Geoinformatics Division, Malaysian Space Agency, Malaysia
Abstract
Since 1961, a total of 689 landslide incidents have been recorded in the Cameron Highlands, highlighting the serious and persistent threat of slope failures in this environmentally sensitive highland region. While some landslides remain active, many are dormant for years and may be suddenly reactivated by heavy rainfall or changes in land use. Despite the high risk, there is currently a lack of a dedicated 3D web-based platform for monitoring and visualising these dormant landslide-prone areas in the Cameron Highlands. This study addresses that gap by introducing TerraLynx 3D, an interactive 3D WebGIS system specifically designed to support near real-time monitoring. The system integrates multiple spatial parameters, including soil type, land cover, slope angle, rainfall distribution, and known critical slope locations. Sediment yield modelling is conducted using the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) to identify zones with high erosion potential that may signal landslide reactivation. These outputs are processed and published via a 3D web environment. The system architecture features a backend GIS model, a Web-GIS environment, and is developed using multiple programming languages, including PHP, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Users can interact with the platform to explore terrain conditions, switch data layers, analyse slope profiles, and retrieve attribute data via pop-up windows. This tool empowers local authorities, planners, and researchers with an accessible and immersive way to monitor landslide risk areas in near real-time. By bridging GIS-based sediment analysis with 3D WebGIS technologies, the system enhances situational awareness and supports more effective land management and disaster preparedness strategies for the Cameron Highlands.
Keywords: Dormant Landslide, 3D WebGIS, USLE (Universal Soil Loss Equation), Soil Erosion Modelling, Slope Stability Monitoring
