In a statement, the foreign ministry said it is closely monitoring the situation following the tremor, which occurred at 12.49pm local time in the Sea of Marmara off the coast of Istanbul’s Silivri district.

The ministry said the consulate general of Malaysia in Istanbul is maintaining close communication with Malaysians in the affected area and remains in contact with local authorities for the latest updates.

Malaysians may contact the consulate general of Malaysia in Istanbul at Polat Plaza, Sisli, via +90-212 989 10 01 during working hours or WhatsApp +90 531 716 05 51 after hours, or email [email protected].

The earthquake was felt across Istanbul and neighbouring provinces, prompting residents to evacuate buildings out of fear.

A second tremor measuring 4.9-magnitude was recorded at 1.02pm local time.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage.