Sabah prone to quake aftershocks, reveals seismic study

Sabah has the potential for experiencing earthquakes based on the regular aftershocks from tremors in neighbouring countries.

Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Fadillah Yusof told the Dewan Negara that a seismic study by the Malaysian Science Academy (MSA) and other information found that the earthquake expected in Sabah and Sarawak would be small to moderate in magnitude.

Fadillah said the study concluded that Sabah had the potential for regular earthquakes of 4.06 magnitude on the Richter scale as there were several active fault lines, namely Mensaban, Crocker, Tabin and Lobou.

Replying to a supplementary question from Wan Ramlah, Fadillah said information on earthquakes would be channelled via RTM and SMSed to all TV and radio stations.

“We also have an early warning system in case of an earthquake or tsunami with 14 stations nationwide, with three more being built, and two buoys already in place.”

Fadillah added that 14 cameras were installed along beaches with 13 more being installed, making a total of 27 cameras.