The earthquake occurred at 9.11pm some 48km east of Lahad Datu at a depth of 10km. (Met Malaysia pic)

PETALING JAYA: A moderate earthquake measuring 5.0 on the Richter scale struck in the waters of Sandakan, Sabah, tonight, said the meteorological department.

In a Facebook post, the department said the quake occurred at 9.11pm some 48km east of Lahad Datu at a depth of 10km.

"Tremors were felt around the east coast of Sabah. The meteorological department will continue to monitor the situation," it added.

This is the latest in a string of minor earthquakes reported in Sabah over the past two weeks, after a 3.3-magnitude quake in Kuamut on Sept 26 and another measuring 3.5 on the Richter scale in Ranau three days ago.