Border families need citizenship, says MP

MP Andi says residents of Sebatik island near the Indonesia-Malaysia border cannot retain dual citizenship, as Malaysian law forbids it, and therefore they should be resettled under full citizenship status. The call comes after many families found themselves caught between two nations, facing legal limbo and limited access to services. Andi urges the government to act swiftly to regularise their status and provide proper housing.

If you live near the border or have relatives there, the proposed resettlement could affect community services, property rights and cross‑border travel, making it vital to understand the upcoming changes.

The move highlights Malaysia’s strict stance on single citizenship, potentially prompting similar actions in other border areas and influencing diplomatic talks with Indonesia over the welfare of stateless residents in the region.