Malaysia’s NRD is considering a voluntary surrender scheme for dual citizenship holders, with no legal action beyond forfeiting one nationality.
BACHOK: The National Registration Department is considering a scheme allowing dual citizenship holders to voluntarily surrender their MyKad without facing legal prosecution.
NRD director-general Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias said the initiative would gauge willingness to come forward and formally choose a single nationality.
He clarified the only consequence would be the mandatory forfeiture of one citizenship, not arrest or other legal measures.
“They can decide which citizenship they wish to retain, as there is no mandatory requirement imposed,” Badrul Hisham told reporters after a community event.
He reiterated that Malaysia does not recognise dual citizenship under the law.
Revocation of Malaysian citizenship can be enforced if an individual is proven to hold more than one nationality.
However, the NRD currently has no centralised records of individuals with dual citizenship.
Action is typically initiated upon receiving a formal complaint in accordance with the Federal Constitution.
The revocation process is complex, requiring a committee chaired by an appointed judge.
Action is only taken after an individual is formally found guilty of holding dual citizenship.
The department has also held discussions with the Thai government on the issue following enhanced border security measures. – Bernama
