BERLIN, March 15 ― Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reassured concerned parents about the rights of children born abroad, affirming that the government is actively addressing the issue. During a dinner with the Malaysian diaspora in Germany, Anwar disclosed that the Cabinet has greenlit an amendment to Article 14(1)(b) of the Federal Constitution regarding citizenship rights for children born overseas, scheduled for Parliament’s consideration this month. Anwar emphasized the significance of the proposed amendment, which seeks to replace the term “father” with “parents” or “mother” and “father,” thereby addressing a longstanding concern regarding parental rights.
Additionally, Anwar responded to concerns raised by a Global Bersih representative regarding Malaysians’ difficulties in voting during past general elections. He directed the Election Commission (EC) to streamline the voting process, including the possibility of establishing more voting centers, such as those in Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) offices. Anwar also advocated for automatic voter registrations for Malaysians abroad, mirroring practices implemented domestically. Moreover, he highlighted the high demand for graduates from Germany among Malaysian companies, underscoring the value of education and skills acquired abroad in bolstering Malaysia’s workforce.
