KUALA LUMPUR: There must be a clear timeline detailing the implementation of reforms in the citizenship law following the proposed constitutional amendment, says a government backbencher.
Tanjung Piai MP Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng expressed concerns over the government's ability to execute these reforms effectively within the promised one-year timeframe.
"This amendment is a progressive step that many have been eagerly awaiting, particularly those affected by citizenship issues," he said while debating the Constitutional (Amendment) Bill 2024 at Dewan Rakyat on Thursday (Oct 17).
He pointed out the urgent need to address potential bureaucratic inefficiencies.
"Can we ensure that these amendments will be implemented effectively without the bureaucratic red tape that often delays the process?"
He added that while the amendment to reduce the age requirement for citizenship applications from 21 to 18 years should be lauded, Wee questioned whether the promised one-year processing timeframe was sufficient.
In the Bill, the government had proposed amendments to the Federal Constitution to address longstanding citizenship issues.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that while the constitutional changes were pending parliamentary approval, the ministry had already developed clearer standard operating procedures (SOPs) for processing applications.
Saifuddin explained that 80% of citizenship cases involved Articles 15A and 19(1), covering foundlings and naturalisation. He said the ministry was now "bound" to decide on applications within one year.
Meanwhile, Wee also highlighted the challenges faced by foreign spouses, particularly women who lose their Malaysian partners during the permanent residency application process.
"Without valid documentation, these women face significant challenges, including finding employment and the risk of deportation. This is a pressing issue that needs immediate attention," he said citing unresolved cases in his constituency, some of which have persisted for nearly 20 years.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that these changes do not lead to more stateless individuals, particularly those lacking valid documents.
"It is crucial to collaborate with stakeholders like the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) to safeguard citizens' rights," he added.
Additionally, Wee raised concerns about the impact on children of foreign-national couples.
"What will be the fate of these children? Will they still have automatic access to citizenship, or must they navigate additional hurdles?" he asked, emphasising the need for transparency to ensure their educational rights.
