Gerakan has hailed the government’s decision to pay special attention on scores of foreign nationals, who have been waiting for years, to be citizens of this country.

“The decision is long overdue but a positive step by the government to acknowledge the sacrifice and contributions of foreign spouses,” said Dr Asharuddin Ahmad, head of Gerakan central bureau on unity.

Dr Asharuddin hoped applications would be speedily approved for those who are not a threat to national security and have been loyal to the country, and not based on political expediency.

He commended Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein for taking up the matter.

“What is the purpose of making it so hard to obtain a Permanent Residence status or citizenship for a foreign spouse?” he asked.

Dr Asharuddin said the government’s inflexible policy had driven away many foreigners who are professionals, and talented Malaysians whose spouses could not obtain PR status.

“The government has been talking about how to lure back talented Malaysians to Malaysia. It is fully aware of this PR issue. I hope this time, it is serious of wanting to do something,” he added.

Yesterday, Hishammuddin said the decision on citizenship for foreign nationals would be known soon and many of these applicants had proven their loyalty to the country and have children as well as relatives who are Malaysians or had gained citizens.

He said they included those who had applied for citizenship when they were n their youth and have aged over the years.