KOTA KINABALU: Several districts in Sabah, including Tawau, Lahad Datu and Semporna, reported tremors on Saturday (May 3) night following a strong earthquake in the Minahassa Peninsula, Sulawesi.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) said the 6.1-magnitude quake struck at 8.51pm at a depth of 10km. Its epicentre was located about 165km west of Gorontalo, Indonesia.
MetMalaysia confirmed there was no tsunami threat to Malaysia.
In Tawau, the Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency call at 9.11pm. A five-member team from the Tawau fire station, led by PBK I Sulaiman Md Salleh, was deployed and arrived at the location within two minutes.
The team carried out inspections at key premises including the hospital, hotels, banks, petrol stations and surrounding areas. No structural damage was found.
The department also noted that a weak tremor was detected 28km from Tawau at 9.51pm.
On social media, Tawau residents shared their experiences.
Facebook user Nur Ain Abdul Wahit wrote that she felt the tremors at 8.53pm.
“It started with a thunder-like sound, then the windows and house shook for a few seconds. I was almost asleep when I felt it,” she said, adding that she even messaged her friend in the living room to confirm it was an earthquake.
Another user, Fauziah Haili Suhaili, said her house felt like it was swaying.
“I shouted at my daughter to come out of the room after I saw the fan swinging side to side. May we all stay protected,” she posted.
The public is advised to remain calm and follow verified updates via MetMalaysia’s official website or the MyCuaca app.
