Kuala lumpur: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has dismissed allegations that he arbitrarily grants Malaysian citizenship to Chinese nationals, describing the claims as slanderous and malicious attempts to incite public sentiment and create confusion. He stressed that the approval process for citizenship applications is strictly governed by the Federal Constitution, existing laws, and comprehensive security screening procedures, and is not carried out arbitrarily or for political purposes.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin Nasution stated that during his tenure as Home Minister, he has repeatedly addressed this issue with complete data, both in Parliament and during media engagements. Despite his previous denial of the same allegation in March last year, a defamatory poster containing elements involving religion, race, and royalty has resurfaced and gone viral.
Saifuddin Nasution urged the public not to be easily influenced by false narratives and to verify information through authentic and reliable sources. He warned that the spread of slander and fake news is irresponsible and could threaten national harmony and security.
In his statement, Saifuddin Nasution also called on the parties responsible for spreading these slanderous claims and false information to cease such unethical actions. He encouraged support for the efforts of the MADANI Government in addressing current challenges, including the global supply crisis affecting the people and the country. He emphasized that this is not the time to stir anxiety, manipulate sentiments, or burden the public further with baseless propaganda, especially while many are already facing rising living costs and global economic uncertainty.
Saifuddin Nasution concluded by urging all parties to act responsibly in sharing information and to prioritize the country's stability, unity, and well-being.