THE National Registration Department (NRD) has firmly rejected claims of any policy change involving MyKad, saying that the handling of dual citizenship issues continues to be carried out in strict accordance with the Federal Constitution.
In a statement, the department said the clarification was necessary following the circulation of information on social media linked to remarks by its Director-General, Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias, concerning the management of cases involving dual nationality.
According to the department, the Director-General’s remarks were originally published as a news article and referred to the existing approach taken in addressing issues of multiple citizenship.
“As a sovereign nation, Malaysia does not recognise the possession of more than one citizenship,” the department said.
“Malaysian citizens who hold foreign citizenship may opt to voluntarily renounce their Malaysian citizenship rather than be subjected to deprivation proceedings under Articles 24, 25 or 26 of the Federal Constitution,” it added.
The department explained that its role is that of an implementing agency, responsible for conducting checks and assessments, including document verification, and for preparing recommendations based on the facts of each case and the prevailing legal provisions.
“Any final decision relating to the deprivation of citizenship status is subject to the authority of the Federal Government through the Minister of Home Affairs,” it said.
The statement further clarified that the phrase “considering recommendations” does not imply a change in policy or the automatic implementation of action against any individual. Instead, it refers to options that may be evaluated to ensure citizenship matters are managed prudently, fairly and in accordance with the law.
“No arbitrary action is taken, and each case is assessed in detail based on the facts, the provisions of the Federal Constitution and the approval of the relevant authorities,” the department said. - December 17, 2025
