The police have confirmed the disclosure by Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi that the Daesh (or Islamic State) group of militants had last year attempted to kidnap several national leaders, including the prime minister.

However, inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar said the police gave its assurance the security situation in the country was safe and under control.

"There were kidnap attempts... so it is our duty to prevent any criminal activity from taking place in the country," he told a media conference after witnessing the signing of a memorandum of understanding and memorandum of agreement between Kolej Unikop and Open University Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur today.

Khalid, who was asked to comment on the disclosure of the kidnap attempt by Zahid, who is also home minister, said apart from the prime minister, he and Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein were also targets of the militant group.

Commenting on certain countries which issued a warning for their citizens on terrorist threats in this country, Khalid said the police assured the security of visitors and tourists.

"Security alert is their right to prevent its people from travelling to places they think are unsafe, we gave the assurance our security is guaranteed and under control... we welcome visitors here," he said.

On Feb 22, the media reported the Australian government in a statement on its official website warned of terrorist threats here, which might target areas frequently visited by foreigners, especially western tourists.

- Bernama