Australia, US warn of potential terror threat in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, PAB-Online
The Australian government has issued an advisory to its citizens to avoid popular hawker street Jalan Alor due to "a possible terrorism threat" there.

"Due to a possible terrorism threat, Australians are advised to avoid Kuala Lumpur's Jalan Alor (Alor Street) and the immediate surrounding areas on Thursday 24 September. This is based on a US Government threat warning issued on 24 September," the Australian government said on its Smart Traveller website.

Police sources have told Channel NewsAsia they are investigating the matter and have increased patrols in Jalan Alor and surrounding areas.

The United States had on Thursday issued a security message to avoid the area, prompting Australia to do likewise.

The US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur said: "Based on credible threat information regarding a potential terrorist act, the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur advises US citizens to avoid Kuala Lumpur’s Jalan Alor (Alor Street) and the immediate surrounding areas, on Thursday, September 24, 2015.

"For all other locations, the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur reminds US citizens of the need for caution and awareness of personal security.  In the past, terrorist organizations have on occasion planned their attacks to coincide with significant dates on the calendar."(CNA/Lin)