PUTRAJAYA: Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that the amendment to the constitution allowing children born overseas to Malaysian mothers with foreign spouses to automatically obtain citizenship will not apply retroactively.
The Home Minister mentioned that thorough studies and consultations were conducted on the matter, leading to the formation of a special committee representing multiple ministries to address the issue.
“After careful assessments, we propose implementing this change for only one generation to prevent potential issues,” Saifuddin shared during a media dialogue session on Monday (March 25).
Despite the non-retrospective nature of the proposal, Saifuddin noted that his ministry had already made decisions on over 3,000 citizenship applications under this category received from 2013 to 2024 as of March 7.
Under the proposed amendment, a Malaysian mother seeking Malaysian citizenship for her newborn must register the child’s birth at the embassy or consulate within one year of the birth.
While the Opposition expressed concerns following the tabling of the amendment at the Dewan Rakyat, Saifuddin expressed confidence in securing the 148 votes needed to pass the Bill.
Any changes to the Federal Constitution require a two-thirds majority, with the Dewan Rakyat totaling 222 members.
“Any concerns or differing opinions can be addressed during the debate,” Saifuddin added.
The proposed amendment on citizenship laws was introduced for the first reading on Monday, with the bill set for its second and third reading during this session.
However, the Opposition is calling for the amendment to undergo review by the Parliamentary Special Select Committee.
