KUCHING: Bong Shi Hui, a 24-year-old who was adopted by Kong Nguh Shan and Bong Kong Jin in 2017, has finally received approval for her citizenship after a five-year wait.
In 2018, her adoptive parents submitted a citizenship application for Bong under Article 15A at the National Registration Department (JPN) Sarawak.
Bong expressed her immense joy when her adoptive parents received the approval letter from the Home Ministry, considering it one of the greatest blessings in her life.
“I can’t put into words how my adoptive parents and I feel. We waited for this moment for a very long time. Nonetheless, I am truly grateful for my adoptive parents,” Bong told reporters today (June 16) at Baitulmakmur Building II.
To celebrate the good news, Bong and her parents paid a visit to the office of the Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
Reflecting on her upbringing, Bong admitted that it was sometimes challenging for her to be without citizenship. There were moments when she felt upset and questioned her situations.
Unlike many stateless children who lack access to education and healthcare, Bong was fortunate that her adoptive parents could afford to send her to a private school.
“I consider myself very fortunate to have wonderful friends throughout my schooling years. They never mocked or bullied me because of my stateless status. In fact, some of my friends who are currently studying overseas called me to congratulate me when they learned about the approval letter. Their happiness for me and my family touched me deeply,” Bong said.
