MyKad religious status stays for now, says Muhyiddin

Bernama pic.

JOHOR BAHRU: A suggestion to do away with the religious status on the national identity card will be studied, said Home Minister Muhyiddin Yassin.

He said this was because the matter could be a sensitive subject to some people. For now, the religious status of the MyKad holder would be retained in the document.

“(So far), I have not received any official request on the proposal. Previously some people have put forward this proposal for consideration, but after the matter was discussed no changes were made.

“I will have to see whether the move is appropriate or not. Some are of the view that the proposal is against the Constitution, as it deals with the special position of the Malays.”

He said this to reporters after officiating an informal session with leaders in conjunction with the launch of a book entitled ‘Bersatu Mulanya Di Sini’ today. Also present was Johor Menteri Besar Dr Sahruddin Jamal, who is also Johor PPBM secretary.

Last Wednesday, Senator Nga Hock Cheh told the Dewan Negara sitting that among the causes of disunity in the country was that individuals were identified according to their race. He suggested that the status be dropped. The proposal was however met with criticisms.