KUALA LUMPUR, July 11 — A strong earthquake of magnitude 6.6 occurred near Mindanao, the Philippines, at 10.13am (Malaysian time) today.
According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the quake’s epicentre was approximately 154km southeast of Isabela City, at a depth of 632km.
Tremors were felt in Sabah and the Federal Territory of Labuan, but they posed no tsunami threat to Malaysia.
The public can contact MetMalaysia at +60379678066 or visit http://www.met.gov.my for further information.
Meanwhile, a spokesman for the Sabah Fire and Rescue Department said three teams were sent out to monitor tremors in Kota Kinabalu and Tawau after receiving a report at 10.45am.
He said no reports of damage or casualties have been received so far.
“Staff members and the public at Menara Kinabalu, Wisma Wanita, and the Kota Kinabalu City Hall building evacuated and gathered at the assembly points.
“The fire department teams are conducting safety inspections and verifications at the location, as well as the Wisma Persekutuan Tawau,” said the spokesman.
The department is monitoring other districts, including Ranau, where Mount Kinabalu is located, as well as Penampang, Lahad Datu, and Sandakan.
He advised the public not to panic and to always follow instructions from the authorities.
— Bernama
