Singapore and Malaysia have stepped up their alert levels, while officials from the Philippines told the public to be extra vigilant in the wake of the Jakarta terror attack yesterday.

The Ministry of Home Affairs said the incident was another sombre reminder that such attacks can happen in Singapore, adding that "everyone in the community must play their part by being vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious behaviour or persons to the authorities".

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong wrote to Indonesian President Joko Widodo, and strongly condemned the attack.

Malaysian police said they are on the highest alert and have increased security measures at public places such as shopping malls and tourist spots.

The office of Philippine President Benigno Aquino urged the public to "exercise heightened vigilance" in support of the country's security forces.

For more stories on the Jakarta attacks, please go here