KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) has been mobilised to monitor coastal areas in Sandakan, Sabah, as a precaution following a strong earthquake in Mindanao, Philippines, on Monday (June 8) morning, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the areas under monitoring include Taman Harmoni, Kampung Forest, Sim-Sim, the Sandakan town centre and Pasir Putih.
Ahmad Zahid, who also chairs the National Disaster Management Committee, said field monitoring has shown that the situation in the affected areas is safe and stable, with no unusual incidents so far.
"I am aware of the tremors experienced in several areas in Sabah, along with the early tsunami warning issued earlier by MetMalaysia (Malaysian Meteorological Department).
"Alhamdulillah, the warning has been lifted. Nevertheless, I urge the public, particularly in Sabah, to remain cautious and continue following the instructions of the authorities," he said in a Facebook post Monday.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid conveyed his condolences and sympathy to the people of the Philippines affected by the disaster and prayed for strength for all victims and their families.
"Malaysia is always prepared to offer any assistance as a close friend and Asean partner," he said.
He also cautioned the public against circulating false or unverified information that could cause panic and advised them to consult MetMalaysia's official channels for the latest updates.
At least 15 people have been killed and 134 others injured after a magnitude 7.9 earthquake struck Mindanao at 7.37am Monday. - Bernama
