Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today raised red flags over the possibility of an influx of militants into the region following pro-Islamic State group Maute's takeover of Marawi in neighbouring Philippines.

Three Malaysians, believed to be militants, have been confirmed to have been killed in the battle.

"There are no less than 400 militants, both local and foreign in the city of Marawi. I remind all that terrorism could happen anywhere and at any time.

"My concern is that there will be an influx (of militants to the region)...and there is possibility that they could go to Sabah or other parts of our country.

"We must be vigilant and not let them slip through," Zahid, who is also the home minister, told reporters in Negri Sembilan today.

He said the militants are using Marawi as a base to set up a caliphate rule in the region which is inconsistent with Islamic teachings.

"We reject this un-Islamic effort. It has been rejected by the people in the Asian region," Zahid added.

The battle for Marawi between militants and Philippine security forces enters its eighth day today, driving residents to evacuate in droves.

The city of Iligan near there is overflowing with evacuees and was placed in lockdown to stop militants from slipping through.