The Foreign Affairs Ministry has advised Malaysians to postpone non-essential travel to the Catalonia region in Spain.

Wisma Putra in a statement yesterday said the advice was issued given the current circumstances in the area, where there have been major protests which began on Sunday.

"Malaysians visiting Barcelona and the Malaysian community residing in Catalonia are advised to give utmost priority to their safety, and avoid areas of rallies and demonstrations.

"They are also advised to follow instructions issued by the local authorities. The ministry will continue to monitor the situation closely," it said.

The statement said Malaysians requiring consular assistance and services may contact the Wisma Putra Duty Officer, Foreign Affairs Ministry Malaysia at +603 8887 4570 (24 hours).

The Malaysian Embassy in Madrid, Spain can be reached at +(34)91 555 0684 or +(34)91 5550737, or call embassy officers at +(34) 629 725 772 or +(34) 659 894 943, it said.

- Bernama