Magnitude 7.1 quake hits Malaysia

Kathmandu. An earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale has struck off the coast of Sulu in Malaysia. According to the US Geological Survey, a 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck at 12:57 a.m. local time on Monday.

Although the epicentre of the quake was located under the sea a short distance from the coast of Sabah, its depth was much higher, at 620 km.

Sabah’s fire control and rescue department said there were no reports of damage to infrastructure or casualties. Authorities have stepped up surveillance on beaches and vulnerable areas.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department has urged the general public not to panic and go about their regular work. Residents in Sabah and Sarawak felt a faint tremor for several seconds.

In addition to Malaysia, some high-rise buildings in neighbouring Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore were also affected, local media reported.