In a statement, the foreign ministry said it took note of the advisory issued by the Japanese embassy to its nationals residing in Malaysia, and has communicated the matter to the authorities.

“Our security agencies, in particular the police, are currently assessing the situation very carefully.

“Malaysia continues to strengthen cooperation in the field of security, including in counter-terrorism efforts, with our partners globally. Sharing of intelligence and best practices are important components of this cooperation,” it said.

Wisma Putra added that it had also instructed the Malaysian embassy in Tokyo to stay in close communication with the Japanese foreign ministry.

It was reported earlier that the Japanese foreign affairs ministry had issued an advisory to its citizens in Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Myanmar to stay away from religious facilities and other crowded areas.

The warning cited intelligence reports that there could be possible attacks on houses of worship and places involving large gatherings in the region.

According to an official from the Japanese embassy here, there are about 31,000 Japanese nationals in Malaysia.