NRD takes action over claims on illegitimate MyKad ownership

New Straits Times

25-06-2025

KOTA KINABALU: The National Registration Department (NRD) has taken necessary actions following viral claims of non-citizens obtaining Malaysian identity cards (MyKad) in Sabah.
"In the case of Mohd Izaz Abit, legal action was initiated after investigations found that he had used another person's birth certificate to apply for a MyKad.
"The identity card was subsequently confiscated following confessions from the individual and the person who facilitated the application," according to a statement.
NRD was responding to allegations, including claims that their offices in Sabah are frequently crowded with foreigners applying for identity cards.
Several images of MyKad, supposedly linked to these individuals, have also been widely circulated on social media.
The department also said it had reviewed the authenticity of three MyKad numbers mentioned in the viral claims.
"It is confirmed that the individuals concerned are legitimate Malaysian citizens under Article 14 of the Federal Constitution."
The department explained that the process for granting Malaysian citizenship is stringent and guided by the Federal Constitution, the Citizenship Rules 1964 and other applicable laws, including those governing marriage registration, adoption, legitimacy of children, and immigration.
"The responsibility of proving eligibility lies entirely with the applicant.
"By meeting the requirements only qualifies the application to be submitted; it does not guarantee approval."