4.0-magnitude earthquake hits Mt. Kinabalu

Photo from The Star Online/Asia News Network.

KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia — A 4.0-magnitude earthquake hit the Mount Kinabalu area, some 16 kilometers west of Ranau at about 9:39 a.m. Friday, according to the Malaysian Meteorological Department website.

The quake, which lasted about three seconds, was felt in Ranau, Kota Kinabalu, Penampang and Tuaran.

Mountain guide Mollonius Tingdal said he and several climbers were on their way down from the summit when they felt tremors at Pondok Paka.

“It lasted about three seconds and after ensuring everyone was fine, we continued our journey down,” he said.

Ranau police chief Deputy Supt. Mohd Farhan Lee said there have been no reports of damages or injuries so far.

“We are monitoring the situation,” he added.

Workers of a hotel at the foot of the mountain said almost everyone in the building felt the quake and had ran out of the building for fear of something worse.

“It was quite strong and almost felt like last year’s fatal quake,” said hotel receptionist Albianie Tracy.

“Things returned to normal after a while but we are still worried,” she said.

Judie John, who lives on the fifth floor of a condominium here, said he felt the tremors too.

“I was worried initially but luckily it stopped after a few seconds. I hope there won’t be any more tremors,” he added.

Driver Minah Sidek, who was looking for parking near Penampang, also said she felt the ground shaking despite being inside her car.