Northern Sumatra earthquake sends tremors across parts of Peninsular Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 16 - A 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck northern Sumatra, Indonesia, on August 15, according to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia). The epicenter was located at 2.9 degrees north and 98.8 degrees east, at a depth of 154 kilometers, 37 kilometers southwest of Pematangsiantar. Although residents in parts of Peninsular Malaysia reported feeling the tremors, no tsunami threat was issued.

In Penang, Fire and Rescue Department director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah reported receiving nine emergency calls concerning the tremors, with reports from various areas in two districts on the island and several areas in Seberang Perai. The tremors lasted for several minutes, causing visible movement of water in a cup and swaying of hanging lights and ceiling fans in some homes.

Social media posts indicated tremors were also felt in Perak, including areas surrounding Kuala Kangsar, Alor Pongsu, Bagan Serai, Teluk Intan, Ulu Kinta, Meru, and Ipoh. However, the Perak Fire and Rescue Department had not yet received any emergency calls related to the incident.