Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid says authorities are closely monitoring Sabah after a 6.8 magnitude quake, with no tsunami threat issued

KUALA LUMPUR: Authorities are conducting continuous field monitoring following a strong earthquake that struck off the coast of Sabah early this morning.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who chairs the National Disaster Management Committee, said patrols are underway in coastal areas near the Sabah International Convention Centre.

Inspections are also being carried out in several districts including Putatan, Kudat and surrounding areas to ensure the situation remains safe and under control.

He advised residents in nearby areas to remain alert to official instructions, stay calm and avoid panic.

“Obtain verified information from the Disaster Portal or the official social media channels of the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), National Disaster Management Agency and other relevant agencies,” he said in a Facebook post.

MetMalaysia reported a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck 49 km west of Kudat, Sabah at 12.57 am.

The agency confirmed the quake posed no tsunami threat, though tremors were felt in Sabah, several areas in Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.

Ahmad Zahid said MetMalaysia will continue to monitor the situation closely.

He also called for prayers during the month of Ramadan for the safety of those in Sabah.

 The Sun Malaysia