PUTRAJAYA: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has reiterated that the proposed constitutional amendment regarding citizenship rights for children born overseas to Malaysian mothers with foreign spouses will not apply retrospectively.
He said thorough studies and consultations were conducted, leading to the formation of a special committee comprising various ministries to examine the issue.
"After careful evaluation, we suggest implementing this change for only one generation to prevent potential complications," he said during a media session, here.
He said although the proposal is not retrospective, his ministry had already processed approximately 3,000 citizenship applications under this category from 2013 to 2024.
Under the proposed amendment, Malaysian mothers seeking citizenship for their newborns born abroad would need to register the births at the embassy or consulate within a year of delivery.
Despite concerns from the opposition during the proposal's tabling in the Dewan Rakyat on Monday, Saifuddin expressed confidence in securing the necessary 148 votes for the bill's passage, as any amendments to the Federal Constitution mandate a two-thirds majority in the 222-member Dewan Rakyat.
ALSO READ: Opposition seeks select committee to review citizenship amendment's removal of elements
"Any amendment to the Federal Constitution requires a two-thirds majority. The Dewan Rakyat has 222 members.
"Any concerns or differences in views and opinions can be raised during the debate," he said.
The proposed amendment to the Federal Constitution on citizenship laws was tabled for the first reading on Monday.
The bill is scheduled for its second and third reading in this meeting.
However, the Opposition wants the amendment to be reviewed by the Parliamentary Special Select Committee.