KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has conveyed Malaysia's solidarity with the Philippines following a powerful earthquake that struck off the country's southern region today, saying that it stands ready to provide any assistance required.
Expressing deep concern over the incident, he said Malaysia's thoughts and prayers were with the Filipino people affected by the disaster.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Filipino people. Malaysia stands ready to render whatever assistance may be required,” Anwar said in a Facebook post today.
The Prime Minister also noted that the earthquake's impact was felt closer to home, with tremors reported in parts of Sabah.
He assured Malaysians that the government was closely monitoring the situation and that emergency services had been placed on full alert.
“Malaysia and the Philippines are close friends and ASEAN partners. I pray for the safety and well-being of all those affected, wishing them strength and courage in the difficult days ahead,” Anwar said.
A magnitude 7.9 earthquake struck Mindanao at 7.37am today at a depth of 50km. The epicentre was located at a latitude of 5.7° north and a longitude of 125.1° east.
Following the quake, authorities issued a tsunami warning, with waves of up to 0.4m expected to affect coastal areas in Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, and Lahad Datu between 10.30am and 12pm today.
