Weak 3.4-Magnitude Earthquake Tremors Startle Keningau Residents

KOTA KINABALU, Sept 3 — A weak 3.4-magnitude earthquake struck Keningau this morning, startling residents across the district, with several describing a loud explosion-like sound immediately preceding brief tremors.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia), through its National Weather and Earthquake Operations Centre, detected the epicenter of the earthquake at a depth of 10 kilometres at 9.31 am today. As of 11.30 am, MET Malaysia had received 463 reports from members of the public who felt the tremors in surrounding areas.

The earthquake, centered approximately 113 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu, rattled the third floor of the Keningau District Office during an ongoing meeting, prompting staff to evacuate the building in accordance with emergency safety protocols.

Keningau District Office staff member Daffri Adzahari said he and his colleagues clearly felt the tremors while discussing work matters.

“We were somewhat panicked but remained in control. All the staff were startled at the time and we followed the SOP in the event of an emergency by moving to the safe area in the parking compound,” Daffri said.

In Kampung Kapakaan Biah, 45-year-old small-scale trader Lusilly Gamin said she was in her garage with her husband when they heard an explosion-like sound followed by brief shaking. She noted that while she was surprised by the rare occurrence, she only confirmed it was a seismic event after seeing information circulated on WhatsApp.

RTM journalist Dullis Saimon, based in Keningau town, reported that tremors were felt across various key locations, including the Keningau District Police Headquarters, Keningau Health Office, shopping centres, business premises, and several surrounding villages.

Despite the sudden tremors, local observers confirmed that the situation remained under control across the district, with no untoward incidents or structural damage reported.

–NMT