RECENTLY, social media has been abuzz with claims that the Home Minister had allegedly granted citizenship to immigrants from China. Is this true?
Verdict:
FALSE
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has strongly denied allegations circulating on social media that he approved citizenship applications of immigrants from China.
He said such defamatory remarks were created by irresponsible parties that could jeopardise the safety and peace of Malaysians.
"The approval of citizenship is subject to the provisions of the Federal Constitution, which have been established for a long time. “This statement is defamatory. I have never issued a statement as mentioned in the image," he said in a statement on Friday (March 14).
Earlier, a picture went viral showing Saifuddin allegedly making a statement approving the citizenship of Chinese immigrants and not allowing disputes regarding the matter, reported Sinar Harian.
He urged the public to obtain information from accurate and reliable sources and to verify it before sharing.
"I also wish to remind that spreading slander and fake news is highly irresponsible and can lead to legal action.
“Throughout last year, I have provided explanations on the issue of citizenship, yet there are still parties who play up 3R (race, religion and royalty) issues," he added.
