Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said he was shocked and appalled by the bomb attacks Tuesday in the Belgian capital of Brussels that claimed at least 34 lives.

He said the attacks were a reminder of the need for countries to unite and counter the threats posed by extremism.

"The thoughts and prayers of all Malaysians are with the victims and their families," he said in his Facebook and Twitter accounts on Tuesday night.

The Foreign Ministry, in a statement, said Malaysia vehemently condemned the bombings.

Belgian media reported that two explosions occurred at the Brussels Airport departure hall and one at a metro subway station.