The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a tsunami advisory following a powerful 7.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Mindanao, Philippines at 7.37am today.
The agency said the earthquake occurred at coordinates 5.7 degrees North and 125.1 degrees East, at a depth of 50 kilometres.
It added that the epicentre was located about 747 kilometres east of Semporna, Sabah.
MetMalaysia warned that tsunami advisory conditions in Sabah are expected to affect coastal areas in Tawau, Semporna, Kunak and Lahad Datu between 10.30am and 12pm.
Residents in affected coastal zones have been advised to stay away from beaches and follow instructions issued by local authorities.
The agency said further updates will be issued should additional information on the seismic event become available.
