Registration Department pledges documentation access for Orang Asli children

The National Registration Department has affirmed its commitment to providing documentation for Orang Asli children, stating that parental marriage records should not be used as grounds for denial of civil registration.

In remarks made in Gua Musang, department officials acknowledged that indigenous children have historically faced obstacles in obtaining identity documents due to inconsistencies or gaps in their parents' marital documentation. This has left many Orang Asli youth without birth certificates or other essential identification papers needed for schooling, healthcare, and future employment.

The department's position represents a significant shift in addressing bureaucratic barriers that have disproportionately affected indigenous communities across the country. Officials indicated that alternative documentation and verification processes would be made available to facilitate registration for affected children.

The move comes amid growing advocacy for indigenous rights in Malaysia, with civil society groups having highlighted the documentation gap as a critical issue affecting Orang Asli access to basic services and opportunities.

The department has signalled its intention to work with indigenous communities and relevant agencies to streamline the registration process and ensure no Orang Asli child is left without proper civil documentation.