Dawnie, I've copied the stuff from the DFAT site for you.
Malaysia:This Advice is current for Tuesday 22 October 2002 EST
The Advice was issued on Thursday 17 October 2002 17:04:49 EST
This advice has been reviewed. It contains new information or advice. The warning level has changed.
Threats against Australians and Australian interests in Malaysia are high, given possible terrorist action. Australians are advised to exercise caution when travelling to the areas around Semporna and Tawau in the state of Sabah, and the islands off the east coast of Sabah, including Sipadan and Pandanan. Australians in Malaysia should avoid any large public gatherings and keep themselves well informed of developments that may affect their safety.
Threats against Australians and Australian interests in Malaysia are high, given possible terrorist action. Australians should consult
http://www.dfat.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/T...rrorist_threat in conjunction with this advice.
Australians in Malaysia should exercise extreme caution, particularly in commercial and public areas known to be frequented by foreigners such as clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events and tourist areas. Australians in Malaysia should monitor carefully developments that might affect their safety.
Please note this travel advice should be read in conjunction with the General Advice to Australian Travellers at
http://www.dfat.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/General and the travel advice issued for the Philippines at
http://www.dfat.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Philippines
Safety and Security
In the light of kidnappings, which have included foreign tourists, Australians are advised to exercise caution when travelling to the areas around Semporna and Tawau in the state of Sabah on the island of Borneo. Australians should be cautious about travel to the islands off the east coast of Sabah, including Sipadan and Pandanan. (Kota Kinabalu on the west coast of Sabah is not affected by this warning). Australians in Malaysia should avoid any large public gatherings and keep themselves well informed of developments that may affect their safety.
In view of the ongoing risk of terrorist activityin the region, Australians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times.