SPECIAL OFFICER TO FOCUS ON FOREIGN WOMEN MARRIED TO MALAYSIANS

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 (Bernama) -- Michael Chong, who was appointed
advisor and special officer to Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein, said he would
focus on citizenship issues involving foreign women married to Malaysians as
there were too many long-standing cases.

He said the issues involving these women, who had yet to earn citizenship
status even after years of marriage, had became a serious problem in the
country.

Apart from that, Chong, who is also the head of Malaysian Chinese
Association (MCA)'s Public Service and Complaints Department, said problems in
the application for citizenship would also be given priority.

He said a team comprising eight individuals from various backgrounds and
races would be set up to help him tackle these two issues.

"These people will be selected from non-governmental organisations
involved in resolving problems faced by the people," he told reporters at
MCA Building here Thursday. MCA is a component party of the ruling National
Front (BN).

On his appointment, he said he was happy to be given the chance to help the
ministry in tackling people's problems.

He also thanked the Prime Minister Najib Razak, Home Minister Hishammuddin
Hussein and MCA President Ong Tee Keat for their trust in him.

While announcing the appointment Wednesday, Hishammuddin said Chong's vast
experience in understanding the problems of the people at the grassroots
reflected his credibility and commitment to serve in the best interests of
Malaysians.
-- BERNAMA