KUCHING, Aug. 9 -- After decades of trying and more than 20 applications, a man born stateless has finally been granted Malaysian citizenship, making the end of a long and difficult journey.

At a press conference yesterday, Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong introduced 49-year-old Tan Tang Lung, who was born in Indonesia to a Sarawakian father and an Indonesian mother.

Tan became stateless when his family relocated to Sarawak in the 1970s without complete documentation.

"From a stateless person to someone holding a red IC, and now finally a Malaysian citizen, this is truly happy news to share," said Yong.

She explained that Tan had to undergo multiple stages before he was eligible for citizenship, including applying for an entry permit...