Wisma Putra has summoned North Korean ambassador Kang Chol over his accusation that Putrajaya had something to conceal with regard to the murder of Kim Jong-nam.

In a statement, Wisma Putra said Kang's remark was baseless and the government has recalled its ambassador in Pyongyang back to Kuala Lumpur for consultation.

"The ambassador (Kang) insinuated that with respect to the death of a Korean national on Feb 13, 2017, the Malaysian government had 'something to conceal'.

"The ministry emphasised that as the death occurred in Malaysian soil under mysterious circumstances, it is the responsibility of the Malaysian government to conduct an investigation to identify the cause of death. This investigation has been conducted in the manner prescribed by Malaysian law.

"The Malaysian government takes very seriously any unfounded attempt to tarnish its reputation," it stated.

Jong-nam, who is believed to have been poisoned at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA2), was the half brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

The murder resulted in diplomatic tension when Kang accused Malaysia of colluding with "hostile forces".

The ambassador was upset that a post-mortem had been conducted without North Korea's permission.

Police have arrested four people, including two women and a Malaysian, in connection with the case, while four more North Koreans are being sought to facilitate investigations.

Meanwhile, Wisma Putra said the Malaysian government has been transparent with regard to the case.

"The embassy has been kept informed of developments related to the matter as well as the processes involved under Malaysian law," it added.

Wisma Putra also noted that Kang met with deputy secretary-general for bilateral affairs, ambassador Raja Nushirwan Zainal Abidin.