(AFP) Security forces would remain on high alert in Sabah following the deportation of Filipino Muslim rebel leader Nur Misuari, Defence minister Najib Razak said today.

Although Malaysia did not expect spill-overs from prevailing problems in southern Philippines, the government was not taking chances, Najib was quoted as saying by Bernama news agency.

"Our forces have been put on alert for some time now and they would stay that way," he added.

Najib said two army batallions and 11 marine boats were now on guard at Sabah.

Misuari and seven of his followers were detained November 24 off Sabah for illegal entry after fleeing a short-lived rebellion in the southern Philippines.

They were deported Monday back to the Philippines, where Misuari faces rebellion charges punishable by 20 years in prison for allegedly instigating the violence that claimed more than 100 lives.

Foreign minister Syed Hamid Albar has said the government did not expect a backlash from Muslim militants in the southern Philippines.