A strong earthquake was recorded at Kota Kinabalu, Sabah at 12:57am on 23 February 2026.
Sabah records 6.8-magnitude earthquake
According to Jabatan Meteorologi Malaysia, the quake measured a magnitude of 6.8, with coordinates at 7.0° North and 116.4° East. The epicentre was located about 49 kilometres west of Kudat, Sabah, at a depth of 678 kilometres below the surface.
Tremors were felt in several areas across Sabah. Some parts of Sarawak and even Peninsular Malaysia also reported slight shaking, with residents describing brief but noticeable movements.
Image credits: MetMalaysia
Authorities have confirmed that there is no tsunami threat to Malaysia following the incident. The Malaysian Meteorological Department will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if necessary. Members of the public are advised to remain calm and to refer only to official sources for verified information.
Why M’sia may feel tremors despite not being on main tectonic lines
Prior to this, just a little over half a year ago, Johor experienced a mild 4.1-magnitude earthquake, with no casualties and tsunami threats reported. Contrast to popular beliefs, while Malaysia may not be on the main tectonic battle lines, the region is surrounded by powerful plate boundaries.
Image credits: Amazing Borneo Tours
Peninsular Malaysia has ancient fault lines and while most of them are considered stable or inactive, but occasionally they can experience minor movement. When large earthquakes happen in Indonesia or the Philippines, the energy does not politely stop at national borders. Seismic waves travel through the earth’s crust and can be felt in Sabah, Sarawak, and even Peninsular Malaysia.
Geographically speaking, East Malaysia, particularly Sabah, is closer to active tectonic areas in the southern Philippines and eastern Indonesia. There are also smaller local fault lines in Sabah itself.
These are not as dramatic as major global fault systems, but they are still capable of producing noticeable quakes.
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