BAHAU: After 54 years, a 67-year-old Muslim convert finally obtains citizenship after he sang Negaraku in his latest interview at the National Registration Department.

Othman Chin Abdullah from Taman Muhibbah, Bahau, started to apply for an identity card when he was 13, but had never been successful.

Over the years, he tried many channels and strategies to get citizenship and a blue IC but to no avail.

At the age of 67, he has missed many elections and could only admire his friends having vacations overseas.

During the process of application, a JPN officer told him to learn to sing “Negaraku.”

He practiced singing the national anthem every day until he could memorize the lyrics.

Othman’s application for citizenship was finally approved after he sang “Negaraku” in his latest interview at JPN.

Othman immediately informed the Bahau state assemblyman’s service center to share his joy after receiving his MyKad.