Malaysian Citizenship & Stateless Children Special Series | What Should You Do If You Receive a BSK Investigation Letter?

1️⃣ Contents and Purpose of the Letter

The letter will require the parents to bring along their identity cards, the child’s birth certificate, and other relevant documents. The purpose is to verify the authenticity of the documents used for the birth registration process.

The child must also be present, as the authorities will verify whether the fingerprints and facial photographs match the records previously registered.

2️⃣ DNA Testing Is the Key Issue

Many parents attempt to explain why the child does not resemble them, such as claiming the child inherited features from grandparents or resembles a deceased relative.

However, JPN officers will often require a DNA test.

In many cases, the parents eventually admit that the child is not their biological child and proceed to sign a statutory declaration and provide a statement. If they continue to provide false information, the authorities may take legal action.

3️⃣ Hiding the Truth from the Child Is Not a Practical Solution

Some parents hope to keep the truth from the child permanently.

However, from a young age, the child may already face questions or comments from classmates regarding physical differences, which can lead to doubts about his or her identity.

4️⃣ Consequences of Ignoring the Letter

Once the National Registration Department has flagged or restricted the child’s record, the child will not be able to obtain an identity card (MyKad).

After the age of 12, the absence of an identity card may create difficulties in matters such as schooling, medical treatment, and travel.

Attempting to apply in another state or in East Malaysia will not solve the issue, as the registration system is linked nationwide. Once the record has been flagged, the restriction applies throughout Malaysia.