The government today criticised Australian Prime Minister John Howard's threat to launch strikes in neighbouring countries to prevent terrorist attacks, saying it threatened regional security.

"We think the statement is uncalled for. It does not assist in creating peace and stability in the world," Foreign Minister Syed Hamid Albar told reporters.

Describing Howard's remark as a "dangerous tendency on Australia's part," he said it could frustrate international cooperation against terror.

"It will break the spirit of cooperation among countries," he said.

"Australia is thinking as a big power and is talking the language of a big power."

Syed Hamid urged Howard to withdraw his statement and to respect international norms.