KUALA LUMPUR – Those without MyKad will have up to a year to register themselves, provided that they have some form of documentation, Home Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin told the Dewan Rakyat today.
Bersatu’s Larut MP said the ministry will announce an action plan to resolve the issue of citizens without identity cards.
“I will announce this soon. Those who feel they are citizens, but have not yet registered, can do so within one year.
“They only need to submit evidence in the form of documents, or go through their respective MPs.”
He said the issue of citizenship should not be turned racial or politicised as it involves people’s future.
“We simplify their affairs. When I announce (the action plan) later, I ask that all elected representatives cooperate to help those in need.”
Charles Santiago (PH-Klang) lauded Hamzah’s announcement, and said he hopes the ministry will keep its promise as the issue has plagued the Indian community for a long time.
“Previously, I brought 300 Klang residents to Putrajaya to meet the former home minister, but until now, there has been no action.
“I hope the ministry this time will fulfil its promise.”
The issue of statelessness, said to affect mostly Indians and Sabah and Sarawak folk, has been a hot topic in the Dewan Rakyat for years. – The Vibes, December 14, 2020