Accra:First paragraph of the news story.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, applications to amend race or ethnicity details in National Registration Department (NRD) records must be supported by clear evidence of ancestry, valid documents, and compliance with existing laws and regulations.

NRD director-general Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias emphasized that changes cannot be made arbitrarily or based solely on personal preference. Each application requires verification of birth records, parental information, and supporting documents. He noted that children born to legally married Malaysian and foreign parents could, under certain conditions, apply to amend their recorded ethnicity based on either parent's ancestry, subject to the prescribed requirements.

Badrul Hisham also clarified that marriage to a Malaysian citizen does not automatically grant Malaysian citizenship to a foreign spouse. Citizenship applications must meet the Federal Constitution and the Citizenship Rules 1964, with approval subject to relevant authorities' assessment.

He reiterated the department's commitment to transparency, integrity, and legal compliance in managing identity registration and population records. The NRD ensures that all recorded information is accurate, verifiable, and compliant with existing regulations.