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A recent Court of Appeal ruling has reignited debate over Malaysia's citizenship laws, which deny nationality to children born outside marriage to foreign mothers—even when DNA confirms paternity and the child has spent their entire life in Malaysia.
A Pahang-born woman has lost her bid for Malaysian citizenship after the High Court found she could not demonstrate her parents were legally married, meaning her status follows her Indonesian mother.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has disputed remarks by a senior political figure regarding the loyalty of Malaysian non-Malay communities, asserting that both Chinese and Indian Malaysians fully respect the constitution and are genuinely committed citizens.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has rejected remarks by Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor regarding 'Tanah Melayu,' stressing that Malaysia's foundation rests on embracing all citizens and building national unity.
Malaysia's National Registration Department recorded 4,598 late birth registration applications in the first seven months of 2024, highlighting ongoing challenges in ensuring all citizens have timely access to critical identity documents and government services.
Malaysia's Home Ministry disclosed that 3,640 citizenship applications remain unresolved in Sabah as of May 2025, with only 10 approved to date. The government is implementing streamlined procedures and expanding access to registration services.
Malaysia's National Registration Department has approved 286 MyKAS applications from the Indian community since 2022, representing a 96 per cent approval rate. The agency has also processed late birth registrations and citizenship applications for the community.
Malaysia's Home Affairs Ministry will review recommendations from the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission on naturalised citizenship applications, working with immigration and police agencies to strengthen procedures and governance.