Wisma Putra: No M'sians affected by Taiwan quake

PETALING JAYA: Wisma Putra had confirmed that there is no Malaysians have been affected in the 6.4-magnitude earthquake in southern Taiwan so far.

However, the ministry will continue to monitor the situation and and will update the public accordingly.

“Malaysians in Taiwan are encouraged to be in touch with the ministry’s office in Taipei, and adhere to all instructions and safety precautions issued by Taiwanese authorities,” a statement released by the ministry said.

The statement added there are many Malaysians who resides at the affected area, but many have returned to Malaysia to celebrate the Chinese New Year.

“There are many students and Malaysian expats who resides in the area. However, most of the varsities are on its winter break and will only resume schooling on Feb 16.

“Most of Malaysians over there had return to Malaysia to celebrate Chinese New Year,” the statement said.

An earthquake that was initially reported as having a magnitude of 6.7, but was downgraded to 6.4 had struct at 39 km northeast of Kaohsiung, the second-largest city on the island and an important port.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said a destructive Pacific-wide tsunami was not expected.

Taiwan lies near the junction of two tectonic plates and is regularly hit by earthquakes.

A strong 6.3-magnitude quake that hit central Taiwan in June 2013 killed four people and caused widespread landslides.
A 7.6-magnitude quake struck the island in September 1999 and killed around 2,400 people.