Strong Earthquake Strikes Off Sabah, Malaysia

A strong earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia, on February 23, 2026, at 12:57 AM local time (1657 GMT Sunday). The epicenter was located less than 100 kilometers northeast of Kota Kinabalu, at a depth of 619.8 kilometers, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The Malaysian Meteorological Department reported a slightly lower magnitude of 6.8 for the quake.

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The USGS assessed the likelihood of casualties or damage as low, and the U.S. Tsunami Warning Center did not issue a tsunami alert, citing the earthquake's significant depth as a mitigating factor against tsunami activity. The Malaysian Meteorological Department stated it would "continue to monitor the situation closely," while the Sabah Fire and Rescue Department reported no emergency calls or incidents in the immediate aftermath of the quake. Tremors were felt on Sabah's west coast and in several areas of Sarawak, as well as in parts of neighboring Brunei and Peninsular Malaysia.

Strong 7.1-magnitude quake strikes off Sabah with no tsunami threatThe HinduChannel News Asia - CNA

Residents in Singapore also reported feeling tremors, with users on social media sharing their experiences. One individual noted that their apartment was "shaking quite a lot" near Katong Park, while others described feeling movement in areas such as Marine Parade and Siglap. A user from Pasir Ris mentioned a loud noise at their front door that caused alarm.

Strong 7.1-magnitude quake strikes off Sabah with no tsunami threat

Sabah is located in a seismically active region due to complex tectonic interactions in Southeast Asia. A study conducted by a Malaysian government geological agency in October 2025 identified six states—Pahang, Terengganu, Perak, Negeri Sembilan, Sabah, and Sarawak—as being at risk of earthquakes. This follows a series of smaller earthquakes that struck Johor in late August 2025, with magnitudes ranging from 2.5 to 4.1.

Channel News Asia - CNAStrong 7.1-magnitude quake strikes off Sabah with no tsunami threatThe Straits Times

Authorities have emphasized that the situation remains under control. The Malaysian Meteorological Department and the Sabah Fire and Rescue Department are actively monitoring the situation to ensure public safety.

Strong 7.1-magnitude quake strikes off Sabah with no tsunami threat

While the USGS reported a magnitude of 7.1, the Malaysian Meteorological Department recorded it at 6.8. This discrepancy highlights the varying assessments of seismic events and their potential impacts.

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Authorities will continue to monitor seismic activity in the region, ensuring that safety protocols are in place should further tremors occur.

Strong 7.1-magnitude quake strikes off Sabah with no tsunami threat