TAWAU: An educator has raised concerns over the handling of a documentation case involving a student known as Jolina, saying the procedures explained by the National Registration Department (JPN) should be consistently applied at service counters.
Earlier in a Facebook, Mukmin Nantang said he agreed with the procedures outlined in a video response by JPN, including the use of witnesses, supporting documents and possible DNA testing to verify identity.
However, he claimed that such procedures were not explained or implemented when the applicant dealt directly with officers at the JPN counter.
Mukmin said Jolina and her mother had prepared various supporting documents including a police report, statutory declaration and witnesses, and had visited the JPN office several times to follow up on the application.
According to him, they had been told to return home and wait for a phone call regarding the status of the application but said the promised call never came after months of waiting.
He said the application was eventually rejected verbally at the counter without a written explanation or guidance on additional steps required.
Mukmin added that Jolina and her mother were prepared to undergo further verification procedures, including a DNA test, if recommended by the authorities.
He urged that the procedures explained by JPN headquarters be clearly communicated and implemented at the ground level to help applicants facing documentation issues, particularly those at risk of becoming stateless.
