EAIC said weaknesses in JPN’s internal processes, including the mishandling of investigations and the loss of the original birth certificate impounded by the department, had contributed to the delay.

“There is a need for improvements to JPN’s SOPs, particularly regarding the appropriate timeframe for cases where further investigation is no longer viable,” it said in a statement today.

“A more detailed review is needed on the implementation of Regulation 25 of the National Registration Regulations 1990 (Amendment 2007), particularly for cases involving individuals who fail to appear to provide statements during the investigation process.”

The commission’s findings followed a complaint it had received against JPN for taking more than a decade to investigate a case involving irregularities in a MyKad application.

In light of the findings, the commission said it had referred its recommendations to the JPN director-general, including the possibility of disciplinary action against the officers involved.

“Recommendations to improve SOPs and the implementation of Regulation 25 of the National Registration Regulations 1990 (Amendment 2007) should be carried out to ensure that JPN can act more proactively and effectively in conducting investigations,” it said.

The commission also said it had referred the matter to the department’s disciplinary authority under Regulation 38 of the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993.