Post by : Shweta

EAIC Flags Fast-Tracked Citizenship for Malaysia Footballers

EAIC Questions Citizenship Approval Process

Malaysia's Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission (EAIC) has raised concerns over the citizenship approval process for seven naturalised football players. The commission said the applications were processed much faster than normal and lacked proper procedural order.

Investigation Involved Multiple Government Agencies

The investigation covered the National Registration Department, Immigration Department, Royal Malaysia Police, and the Football Association of Malaysia. Investigators interviewed 15 government officers and five civilian witnesses while reviewing the approval process.

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Several Procedural Weaknesses Identified

According to the EAIC report, there were weaknesses in immigration interviews, security checks, Malay language assessments, and document verification. Officials also found issues related to confirming the players had officially renounced their previous citizenships before receiving Malaysian nationality.

Recommendations for Stronger Rules

The commission has recommended that the Home Ministry and National Registration Department review all approvals granted to the seven players. It also called for clear guidelines on ministerial discretion, standard operating procedures for citizenship approvals, and stricter verification processes to ensure compliance with Malaysian law.

Security and National Interest Highlighted

EAIC stressed that citizenship by naturalisation is directly linked to national security and public interest. The commission said future applications should undergo more comprehensive screening involving immigration authorities, police, and registration officials before approval is granted.

Forgery Allegations Under Separate Investigation

The report also noted that police reports have been filed regarding alleged forged documents linked to the case. Since these allegations fall outside the commission's authority, EAIC said the relevant law enforcement agencies should continue their investigations independently.

Government Yet to Respond

The findings have been submitted to the Home Ministry, Immigration Department, and National Registration Department for further action. Authorities are expected to review the recommendations and decide on any policy or procedural changes.

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