Controversial Muslim preacher Zakir Naik has applied for a Malaysian citizenship, major Indian newspaper Times of India said, quoting agency sources.

According to the report, sources revealed that Malaysian authorities have yet to make a decision on his application.

“The Indian government is planning to use its diplomatic channels to frustrate all attempts by the preacher to get citizenship in any country,” the report said, adding that Malaysian authorities were aware of the terror cases pending against Zakir.

Indian authorities are currently investigating Zakir on terrorism and money laundering charges.

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) had earlier this month approached Interpol to issue a Red Corner Notice against Zakir, to declare him as an international fugitive who could be arrested by any agency around the world.

This follows the NIA's year-long investigation into Zakir’s Islamic Research Foundation and Peace TV.

The Indian government has since banned the foundation and taken the TV channel off the air.

According to the Times of India, the NIA alleged that Zakir has been promoting enmity and hatred between different religious groups in the country through his speeches and lectures.

Among others, the report said, terrorists in Bangladesh had last year claimed they were inspired by Zakir's speeches on waging jihad.

He fled from India immediately after an investigation against him was initiated last July and Times of India further quoted sources who said Zakir is believed to be on the move between United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, African and Southeast Asian countries.

Home Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi last month revealed that Zakir has been holding a permanent resident status in Malaysia since about five years ago, after the preacher said he was willing to be questioned by Indian authorities on a neutral ground, such as Malaysia.