NRD carrying out IC checks in Sabah, says chief minister

KOTA KINABALU: Massive checks are under way to expose fake Malaysian identity cards amid continued calls by Sabah Barisan Nasional parties to recall all the documents issued in the state. 

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman (pic) said the National Registration Department (NRD) is carrying out checks and ensuring that illegal ICs have been cancelled.

“The total number of fraudulent identity cards will be disclosed after certain processes are completed and the data is verified by the Migrant Management Committee chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and myself,” he said in a statement on Monday.

He said the state was working closely with the Federal Government in managing Sabah’s migrant situation which had direct bearing on security matters.

“Any decision we make is based on the result of detailed and holistic studies,” Musa added.

He said the Working Committee on Illegal Immigrants chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan is also gathering recommendations from various groups on the matter.

Sabah Barisan Nasional components Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and United Pasok Momogun Kadazandusun Murut Organisation (Upko) have asked for a recall of all identity cards issued in Sabah.

Upko president Datuk Seri Madius Tangau said state Barisan parties should meet as early as possible to discuss the findings of Pairin’s committee.

He said Upko also hoped that the Barisan leadership will consider reactivating the illegal immigrants bureau, of which Pairin is chairman.

Madius said it has been decided that the bureau will be represented by leaders from all Barisan component parties.