The US Geological Survey (USGS) said that the 7.1 magnitude earthquake occurred in the South China Sea at about 1 am on February 23, Malaysia time.
The epicenter is located at a depth of 620km and 55km north-northwest of Kota Belud, Malaysia.
No tsunami warnings have been issued and there have been no immediate reports of damage caused by the latest earthquake.
The US Geological Survey assesses the possibility of casualties or damage as low.
The US Tsunami Warning Center did not issue a warning, arguing that the depth of the earthquake meant no tsunami was expected.
When seismologists review existing data, there may be adjustments to the intensity of the earthquake. Additional information collected about the earthquake may also cause scientists from the US Geological Survey to update maps of shaking.
The Malaysian Meteorological Agency said it will "continue to monitor the situation closely", estimating the magnitude of the earthquake to be 6.8 on the Richter scale.
The agency said that aftershocks of the earthquake were felt on the west coast of Sabah and in some areas of Sarawak state.
