(Nov 16): Several Malaysian leaders including Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein are now targeted by the militant group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (Isis), The Star reports.

“I confirm that Isis is targeting our leaders, but the threat will not stop us from continuing our fight against terrorism in the country and the region,” Hishammuddin was quoted as saying in the report.

Hishammuddin said he had learnt he was a target together with other leaders before the Asean Defence Ministers meeting in Langkawi in March.

He did not elaborate further but said the threat will not deter Putrajaya in its fight against terrorism in the country and the region.

The report also quoted a Bukit Aman official as saying that Murad Halimuddin, an Isis member, who were detained by the police, as saying that senior ministers were among the targets.

“Murad said that they wanted to kidnap leaders whom they considered as ‘tagut’ (crossed religious boundaries),” the official was quoted as saying in the report.

Police officers and army personnel who have been supportive of the "tagut" leaders were also targeted, the official said.

Hishammuddin meanwhile said that the Nov 13 attacks in Paris showed how dangerous the terrorist threats were.

“Concerted efforts are needed from all countries to combat terrorist groups, including those wanting to expand their footprints in the region,” he said.

Malaysia has been on heightened terror alert since 129 people were killed and hundreds injured when gunmen stormed a restaurant, a concert hall and a football game in Paris on Friday, in what has been called the worst attacks to hit France since World War 2.

Isis claimed responsibility for the attacks, which have been condemned around the world as well as by top Muslim figures.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi on Sunday said Malaysian authorities will go all out to prevent attacks which took place in Paris on from happening here.

Zahid, who is also deputy prime minister said the police have multiplied their numbers to ensure that the violence in France does not spread here, especially ahead of the Asean summit next month.

He said the authorities have not received any information on possible attacks ahead of the summit but urged the public to come forward with any information on militant threats.

“What happened in Paris can happen anywhere else if our readiness is not at optimum levels,” he said.

On Sunday, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said police are doubling its efforts as Malaysia prepares to host US President Barack Obama, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and a host of other world leaders at the Asean Summit to be held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre this weekend. – The Malaysian Insider