NRD clarifies no automatic action against dual citizenship holders who voluntarily surrender MyKad, stressing Malaysia does not recognise dual nationality.
KUALA LUMPUR: The National Registration Department (NRD) has clarified there is no change in policy regarding dual citizenship holders who surrender their MyKad.
It stated no automatic action will be taken against individuals who voluntarily give up their Malaysian identity cards.
This assurance follows a recent statement by NRD director-general Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias.
His remarks referenced the existing constitutional approach to managing dual citizenship.
“As a sovereign nation, Malaysia does not recognise dual citizenship,” the NRD said.
It explained that citizens holding foreign nationality may voluntarily renounce their Malaysian status.
This process is distinct from being deprived of citizenship under specific constitutional articles.
The department issued this clarification due to a news clip circulating on social media.
It said the director-general’s statement was interpreted out of context.
The phrase “considering recommendations” does not signal any policy shift.
It refers to options in citizenship revocation matters handled prudently and lawfully.
“The NRD wishes to emphasise that no arbitrary action will be taken,” it added.
Each case will be thoroughly assessed based on facts and constitutional provisions.
Final decisions also require approvals from the relevant authorities.