He has been facing with all kinds of twists and turns because of the red IC.

He has been seeking for the assistance of some “influential” figure, including senior officers and politicians, but receives no help all these years.

Nevertheless, his greatest wish is to get a blue IC and become a true Malaysian.

Koay Chai S'ng, 62, is still working for a company. His two sons have married and he has two grandchildren.

After the independence of Malaysia, the then 12-year-year Koay came to Penang from Fujian, China with his mother and two younger brothers on 11 Aug 1959.

He had completed his primary education before he came and continued his study here. After the independence, the government launched a citizenship application campaign in 1961. His parents and younger brothers made their applications and their applications were later approved.

He said that he missed the application as he was outstation at that time and was unable to sign the application form. He tried many times to make the citizenship application later but failed. He even sought assistance from politicians and senior officers but received no reply at all. He was extremely disappointed.

As Koay was not a Malaysian citizen, he was not able to enjoy employee benefits. Moreover, he faced difficulties in getting a job. Many employers refused to hire a non-citizen as they were reluctant to take risks.

Koay said that under such a circumstances, he had to survive on odd jobs.

He pointed out that he grew up together with the country and now Malaysia has become a prosperous and developing country. He is qualified enough to be a Malaysian citizen. It is as well the greatest wish of his life. (Translated by SOONG PHUI JEE/ Sin Chew Daily)

Do you know?

Do you know that not all “red ICs” are red in colour?

According to the information given, just like others, the ICs of some red IC holders are blue in colour. However, the status of “WARGANEGARA (citizen)” is stated beneath the picture of ordinary MyKad holders while “PEMASTAUTIN TETAP (Permanent resident)” is stated for red IC holders.

In fact, the National Registration Department also issues another version of red IC. It is blue in colour with the “Permanent resident” status printed in red, at the most visible place of the card.

There is another version of red IC in which it is blue in colour with four red dots printed in the middle of the card, and the “Permanent resident” status indicated beneath the picture.

Other than the permanent resident card, the National Registration Department as well issues another type of MyKad, namely “temporary IC”. It is also blue in colour with the status of “PEMASTAUTIN SEMENTARA (temporary resident)” stated beneath the picture. (Translated by SOONG PHUI JEE/Sin Chew Daily)