The Malaysian government has agreed to allocate RM2 million to provide in-person services for approximately 3,500 Malaysians residing in the United States to renew their MyKid or MyKad.
According to MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had personally assured him of the allocation after a discussion with officials from the National Registration Department (NRD).
“This allocation will enable the Home Ministry to send a team of officers to the United States to assist Malaysians in renewing their identification papers without having to travel back to Malaysia.”
“Getting their identity cards means a lot to them, as it will enable them to apply for passports and other official documents, facilitating their progress in life,” he said.
Dr Wee highlighted the predicament faced by many Malaysian children who had moved to the United States with their parents and said that those who were under 12 years old at the time and only held their MyKid identification cards encountered issues when applying for Malaysian passports.
“As a result, they have been stranded in the US and are unable to obtain green cards or even proper identification, leading to employment, marriage and other problems.”
“Besides, they would not be able to regain entry into the country if they leave and return to Malaysia to get their papers sorted out,” he added.
Dr Wee said that some of these children are now adults, adding that there are about 3,500 affected Malaysians in the US who have faced hurdles in pursuing higher education or starting families through marriage.
“This initiative will bring stability to their families and alleviate their concerns about their future,” he added.
What do you think of this initiative? Let us know in the comments.
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