KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 27 -- Muslim children given "unsuitable" names can still apply to have them changed at the National Registration Department (NRD), Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said.

He said the NRD already has clear guidelines to ensure names registered for Muslim children carry good and proper meanings in line with language, religion and cultural norms.

"Under Section 16 of Act 299, the Registrar-General has the authority to register or refuse to register any name that is unpleasant or undesirable."

He said the NRD has introduced specific guidelines through Departmental Directive No. 8/2006 dated October 2, 2006, which outlines the procedure for naming children during birth registration.

"This directive serve...