Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak has urged all quarters to stop making statements that may lead to strife and discord.

"I want all quarters in Malaysia not to issue political statements that could cause conflict or misunderstandings.

"This is the time for us to unite and ensure our country continues to progress, not to quarrel and point fingers," he said.

Najib, who is currently in Milan, Italy, issued the statement through Facebook .

The prime minister did not mention what prompted the sudden advice.

However, Najib's remarks came a day after Deputy Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Tajuddin Abdul Rahman threatened to "slap" ( lempang ) the Chinese community if they take their grouses overseas.

Tajuddin's warning was made after he downplayed Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Huang Huikang's visit to Petaling Street on Sept 25, where the diplomat declared that China stood against extremism and racism targeted at any one race.

Huang's comments raised eyebrows in Putrajaya as it was made ahead of a racially-charged protest led by Umno leaders targeting Chinese businesses at Petaling Street, which was later aborted.

Tajuddin later denied making the threat , even though a recording of what he said was published online.

Najib is in Milan for a three-day working visit to further boost bilateral ties. He was accompanied by his wife Rosmah Mansor.

The premier flew to Milan after attending the 70th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

According to Bernama , Najib received an official invitation from Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi to attend this year's edition of the Expo Milano, the world's largest exposition which held every four years.