KUALA LUMPUR — The public has been advised to avoid coastal areas following a strong earthquake that struck Mindanao, Philippines, early Monday morning.
The warning was issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) after a tsunami advisory was activated for coastal areas in Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, and Lahad Datu, Sabah.
According to MetMalaysia, tsunami waves are expected to reach these coastal zones between 10.30am and 12pm.
“Residents in the affected coastal areas are advised to stay away from beaches and comply with instructions from local authorities,” the department said in a statement.
The earthquake, measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale, occurred at 7.37am at a depth of 50 kilometres. Its epicenter was located at coordinates 5.7 degrees north and 125.1 degrees east, approximately 747 kilometres east of Semporna, Sabah.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson from the Sabah Operations Control Centre (PGO) of the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) said monitoring efforts have been intensified following the incident.
Fire and Rescue teams from Lahad Datu, Tawau, Kunak, and Semporna have been deployed to conduct checks along coastal areas, residential settlements, and other high-risk locations within their respective jurisdictions.
“Based on current monitoring, no structural damage, unusual incidents, rise in sea level, or emergencies have been reported in the affected areas. The situation remains under control and safe,” the spokesperson was quoted saying by Sinar Harian.
However, the department added that monitoring will continue, with all teams remaining on standby to respond to any possible developments following the advisory issued by relevant authorities. – June 8, 2026