The United States embassy in Kuala Lumpur today cautioned Americans in the country to pay close attention to their safety in the wake of a military strike against Afghanistan early this morning.

In a public announcement issued by the embassy today, Americans in Malaysia were urged to monitor local news and to exercise caution in their travels around the country.

The statement asked US citizens to ensure that their contact numbers and addresses have been registered with the embassy. They were also advised to limit their movements in their respective locations.

No reports of harassment

However, the statement stressed that no cases of harassment against the Americans had been reported thus far.

"The US embassy is not aware at this time of any specific threat in Malaysia against American interests, private or public," it said.

"Malaysian police are patrolling in areas where there are communities of Americans and other foreigners, and they have assured us that they will continue to protect Americans and everyone else."

The embassy also extended its thanks to the Malaysian government and police force for their "continuous support since the tragedies of Sept 11".

Following the first series of militant actions launched by the US and United Kingdom on Afghanistan at 12.45am today (9.45pm, Sunday, local time), it was reported that police have stepped up security at the US embassy to prevent any untoward incident.