Resolution of Delayed Birth Certificate Application

6 January 2026 

Rivera, Roslie & Co recently acted for a Malaysian citizen whose application for the issuance of a birth certificate had remained pending for several years due to issues relating to parental name particulars.

During this period, no written decision, request for clarification, or procedural direction had been communicated by the relevant authority, leaving the applicant without certainty as to the status of the application or the steps required for its resolution.

Upon engagement, our Firm issued a formal legal demand seeking written confirmation of:-

• the status of the application;

• the existence of any official record; and

• any outstanding procedural or documentary requirements.

The birth certificate was subsequently issued two days after the issuance of the formal legal demand.

Observations on Administrative Process 

This matter illustrates the practical difficulties that may arise where administrative applications remain pending without clear communication or procedural guidance. While public authorities are empowered to assess and verify applications, timely communication and procedural clarity are essential to ensure fairness and public confidence in administrative processes. 

The resolution of this matter demonstrates the importance of formal legal engagement in facilitating clarification and bringing long-pending administrative issues to a conclusion.

Rivera, Roslie & Co continues to assist clients in addressing administrative delays and navigating procedural issues involving public authorities.