The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) have denied a message via social media claiming that shopping malls and public places have become the target of terrorist groups.

Head of corporate communications of the inspector-general of police secretariat, Asmawati Ahmad, said the message spread via WhatsApp also claimed the government had issued a warning and urged the public to be alert.

"PDRM confirms that the message is false and is spread by irresponsible parties intended to intimidate the public.

"We will continue to protect public safety and preserve the national sovereignty from threats from within and outside the country," she said in statement yesterday.

- Bernama