Northern states in Malaysia, including Penang, have been identified as possible locations for the temporary settlement of Rohingya migrants, said Khalid Abu Bakar.

The Inspector-General of Police said no decision had been made but the National Security Council was in discussion with relevant agencies.

"We are still waiting for the council's decision. I feel a suitable location might be in the northern part of the country to make it easier for us to move the migrants.

"The government may look to Penang to build the temporary settlement so that it will be easier for the agencies to manage the placement of Rohingya migrants," he told reporters after meeting police personnel here yesterday.

Khalid said the police would remain vigilant to ensure that none of the Rohingya migrants posed a threat to national security.

"We will be careful when documenting the migrants with the help of the immigration department.

"The safety precaution is a must" to ensure there was no danger stemming from the migrants, he said.

-The Star/Asia News Network