THE deregistration of Chinese education group Dong Zong’s Johor chapter is not an isolated issue as there were other associations that were previously delisted, said Home Minister Muhyiddin Yassin.

He said there was a technical issue that could have caused the association to be deregistered in the state.

“They have asked me to consider (their appeal). I have listened to their lawyer and the Registar of Societies (RoS), and this is not an isolated issue. 

“There are other organisations that have also appealed to the ministry (on deregistration). So this is one of the cases,” he said after meeting Johor Dong Zong representatives in Putrajaya today.

On Sunday, it was reported that Johor Dong Zong had submitted a letter of appeal to the ministry regarding the state chapter’s deregistration.

Central committee member Low Chee Chong said the state Dong Zong, on August 20, had received a letter of deregistration dated August 8 from RoS’ Johor director, stating that the group did not provide an explanation for changes to its charter.

Muhyiddin said he has discussed the issue with RoS and Dong Zong on what had caused the deregistration.

“RoS can call Dong Zong for an explanation or look at their constitution and see if there are any amendments that need to be done accordingly.

“I have asked Dong Zong to respond immediately to RoS so that it can be brought to me for consideration on their status.”

He said the important thing was for Dong Zong to abide with RoS guidelines.

“If it’s not against the RoS guidelines, then I will consider their appeal,” he said. – September 4, 2019.