KUALA LUMPUR – The National Registration Department (JPN) has stressed that Malaysian citizenship is not handed out arbitrarily, but is an exclusive right of the Federal Government reserved only for those truly eligible.
In a statement today, JPN explained that all applications are processed under Part III of the Federal Constitution and the 1964 Citizenship Rules, with strict consideration of national security, sovereignty, and the wellbeing of citizens.
The clarification follows concerns raised by the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, regarding the granting of Permanent Resident (PR) status and citizenship to foreigners.
According to JPN, the main control for PR identity card (MyPR) applications lies in valid Entry Permits issued by the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM).
Cross-checks between JPN and JIM are carried out to ensure the permits are genuine and issued only to qualified individuals.
As of 31 December 2025, a total of 261,156 MyPR holders were recorded nationwide.
JPN added that PR status can be revoked if holders are found involved in offences that threaten national security or public order.
“Citizenship is the highest award of the Malaysian Government, never offered or given lightly. Each application is thoroughly reviewed by the Approval Consideration Committee before any decision is made,” the statement read. – January 25, 2026