Malaysia, locked in a row with neighbouring Singapore over ownership of a tiny islet, today advised fishermen and politicians to stay away from the area until the dispute is settled.

Johor police chief Mukhtar Ismail told the public not to take unnecessary risks by going to the disputed Batu Putih islet.

"For the time being, I will not encourage members of the public to go near the Batu Puteh because we cannot guarantee their safety at sea," he was quoted as saying by Bernama news agency.

Johor police have also advised the youth wing of the ruling Umno against carrying out plans to go to the atoll.

"If anything untoward happens...it will be difficult for us to act immediately. As such, my advice is to wait until the dispute has been resolved," Mukhtar said.