NRD pledges reforms and sets timeline to address complex IC cases following decade-long delays

KUALA LUMPUR, May 21 — The National Registration Department (NRD) will review disciplinary actions against officers found to be negligent or who failed to act on delays in processing identity card (IC) applications.

In a statement released yesterday, the NRD said it will also implement a clear timeline for managing complex investigation cases, in addition to retraining and enhancing the skills of its investigating officers.

“The department is currently reviewing and strengthening its standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure all cases are handled efficiently and in accordance with good governance practices,” it said.

The department also noted that improvements to its document storage and management systems are in progress to prevent further issues.

This move comes in response to findings by the Enforcement Agency Integrity Commission (EAIC), which recently revealed a case of an IC application that remained unresolved for over 10 years.

The NRD emphasized that it takes all criticisms seriously, especially those related to the handling of investigation papers, document management, SOP compliance, and enforcement under Regulation 25 of the National Registration Regulations 1990 (Amendment 2007).

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and efficiency, the department said the latest measures are designed to address immediate shortcomings and support broader reforms under the government’s public sector transformation agenda. — Bernama