FEDERAL independent Senator Nick Xenophon has been detained by Malaysian authorities after being told he was a security risk.
He was taken into custody on his arrival at Kuala Lumpur airport about 10:00am (AEDT).
Senator Xenophon, who is outspoken on human rights issues in Malaysia, is under escort and expects to be deported.
The South Australian senator had been about to join a delegation which had meetings planned with Malaysian opposition members and officials from the electoral commission ahead of this year's national election.
Foreign Minister Bob Carr said in a statement the Australian High Commissioner in Malaysia has contacted Mr Xenophon and is working to secure his release.
Read more at ABC news online.