Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), through the National Weather and Earthquake Operations Centre (POCGN), detected a weak 3.4-magnitude earthquake at a depth of 10 kilometers in Keningau at 9.31 am today. Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup stated that the earthquake's epicenter was located at coordinates 5.3 degrees North and 116.1 degrees East, approximately 10 kilometers west of Keningau.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the tremors were felt by residents in the surrounding areas, with MetMalaysia receiving a total of 436 reports of tremors by 11.30 am. Seismological analysis indicates that Keningau has experienced a series of weak earthquakes in the past, including incidents in 2019, 2023, and on October 6, 2024.

Arthur Joseph Kurup assured the public that today's earthquake is part of the release of local tectonic energy and does not pose a tsunami threat. He emphasized that MetMalaysia will continue to monitor aftershock activity closely and provide updates as necessary.

Following the earthquake, the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) of Sabah conducted patrols and monitoring in the Keningau district. Seven personnel from the Keningau Fire and Rescue Station inspected local buildings, including the Keningau G-MART and Apollo Furniture, as well as the Keningau Health Office and the Keningau District Police Headquarters. No structural damage, collapses, fires, or injuries were reported.

Safety advice was issued to residents to remain alert for potential aftershocks and to report any damage or emergencies to authorities. The patrol operation, which commenced at 9.40 am, concluded at 11.05 am, confirming that the situation was safe and under control.