KUALA LUMPUR – A powerful deep-focus earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck the waters off Kota Kinabalu in the early hours of Monday, triggering tremors that were felt across a surprisingly wide radius, including parts of Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia. Despite the intensity of the quake, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has officially declared that there is no tsunami threat to the nation’s coastlines.
The seismic event, which occurred at 12:57 AM, woke many residents in East Malaysia. According to the data released by MetMalaysia, the quake was centered at coordinates 7.0° North and 116.4° East. The epicenter was identified approximately 49 kilometers west of the Kudat district in Sabah.
While a 6.8 magnitude quake is considered “strong” by seismic standards, the potential for catastrophic surface destruction was mitigated by its extreme depth. MetMalaysia’s sensors recorded the earthquake at a depth of 678 kilometers.
Geological experts note that earthquakes occurring at such depths—known as deep-focus earthquakes—tend to dissipate much of their energy before reaching the surface. However, they are unique in their ability to be felt over vast distances. This explains why the vibrations were not only felt in the immediate vicinity of Sabah but were also reported by citizens in Sarawak and several high-rise buildings in Peninsular Malaysia.
Immediately following the quake, the National Tsunami Early Warning Centre conducted an assessment of the sea levels and seismic data. Within a short period, MetMalaysia issued a bulletin to reassure the public.
“Based on our latest analysis, there is no threat of a tsunami to Malaysia,” the department stated. “The depth and nature of the movement did not displace the volume of water necessary to generate hazardous waves.”
Despite the lack of a tsunami warning, the event caused a stir on social media, with residents from Kota Kinabalu, Tawau, and Sandakan sharing their experiences of feeling the ground sway for several seconds.
Emergency services and local authorities in Sabah are currently conducting routine checks on critical infrastructure, including bridges and government buildings, to ensure structural integrity. As of this morning, no injuries or significant property damage have been reported to the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA).
MetMalaysia has urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or old videos of previous disasters, which can cause unnecessary panic. They emphasized that the agency remains on high alert and will continue to monitor the situation for any aftershocks or secondary seismic activity.
Citizens are encouraged to stay informed through the official MetMalaysia website, the myCuaca mobile application, and their verified social media platforms for real-time updates.
