The tremors prompted some VIPs made up of Cabinet ministers, political leaders as well as media personnel had to evacuate the venue.
The press conference began almost immediately after the situation was deemed safe.
READ: Sabah quake - Weak earthquake occurs 90km northwest of Labuan
Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang were present at a press conference to update on the SAR mission for the remaining quake victims. -Astro AWANI/Ridzal Abdullah
The search and rescue (SAR) mission for the remaining quake victims atop Mount Kinabalu and the assistance following the devastation which occurred early Friday.
PAS President Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang and Pasir MAS MP Nik Mohamad Abduh Nik Abdul Aziz who - along with Muhyiddin - also reportedly rushed out of the premises.
Also seen during this emergency situation was Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
Some of the media personnel present at the press conference with Muhyiddin. -Astro AWANI/Ridzal Abdullah
READ: 9 more bodies of Ranau quake found - Masidi Manjun
READ: All efforts taken to rescue victims of the quake in Sabah - Najib
During the press conference which started slight later than scheduled, Muhyiddin announced a total aid worth RM10,000 will be channeled to the families of the deceased (RM5,000 from the federal government and the remaining RM5,000 from the state government).
PHOTO GALLERY: Ranau Earthquake
The tremor which was felt at 1.35pm forced those who were scheduled to attend the press conference to rush out of the venue. -Astro AWANI/Ridzal Abdullah
Meanwhile, those injured in the devastation will be given RM2,000 while those who survived (with no injuries) but experiencing trauma will receive RM1,000 each.
