An Indonesian lawmaker has been barred from visiting suspected Indonesian militants at a Malaysian detention camp, rights groups said Thursday, describing the decision as an embarassment to the country.

The Indonesian MP, Suripto, who goes by only one name, attempted to inspect the Kamunting detention centre in northern Malaysia on Wednesday but the Indonesian embassy failed to obtain approval, the Star newspaper said.

"Since we do not have a black-and-white approval, the prison authority could not admit us," he was quoted as saying.

Rights group GMI, which campaigns against Malaysia's draconian Internal Security Act that allows for indefinite detention without trial, condemned the decision.

"The denial of entry is totally uncalled for and embarrassing. This is a typical case of how arrogant the authorities can be when granted absolute power," it said in a statement.

Linked to Al Qaeda

Civil society groups say that at least 14 Indonesians are being held at the camp under the Internal Security Act for alleged involvement with the Al-Qaeda-linked Jemaah Islamiyah terror network.

According to GMI secretary Chang Lih Kang, six of the detainees have been held in solitary and dual confinement for allegedly participating in a riot in December.

"Based on the information I received, human rights have been contravened while they were under detention," said Suripto.

"If possible, we would like them to return or be deported to Indonesia," he told the Star .

Malaysia is currently holding more than 80 alleged Islamic militants under the Internal Security Act.