Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah has reaffirmed the government’s firm stance that Malaysian citizenship will only be granted to individuals who genuinely qualify under the law.
Speaking at the UMNO Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House in Lahad Datu, Shamsul Anuar emphasized that citizenship is the highest recognition the government can confer, and it will not be awarded arbitrarily. He noted that each application undergoes a thorough vetting process in line with the Federal Constitution.
“The granting of citizenship is not something we take lightly. Every application is carefully scrutinized before any documentation is issued,” he told reporters.
To further assist communities in remote areas, the National Registration Department (NRD) has been rolling out the “Mekar” program, an outreach initiative designed to bring essential documentation services closer to underserved populations. The program helps residents in rural and interior regions register births and apply for identification cards without the need to travel long distances to government offices.
“NRD officers are deployed directly into remote areas, equipped with the necessary tools to assist residents,” said Shamsul. “They offer guidance, help resolve documentation issues, and ensure no one is left behind.”
On the topic of national security, especially in the east coast of Sabah, Shamsul praised the efforts of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM). Since January 15, 2020, there have been no reported cases of kidnapping in the region, he said.
ESSCOM, along with other agencies, continues to conduct joint operations such as Op Sanggah and Op Gasak, targeting criminal groups, smuggling syndicates, and cross-border threats. These operations have involved rigorous enforcement, including land and maritime checkpoints.
“In the past year alone, 1.3 million inspections have been conducted through roadblocks and boat patrols,” he revealed, adding that public vigilance remains crucial.
The Deputy Minister concluded by urging citizens to remain alert and to cooperate with authorities to uphold national security and ensure orderly documentation processes across the country.
With security under control and access to documentation expanding, the government is reinforcing both national safety and the integrity of Malaysian citizenship—reserving it only for those who meet the established legal and constitutional standards.
Information Source: HMetro
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