THE government is preparing a document on all proposed amendments to part III of the Federal Constitution on citizenship matters, taking into account the views of the people, said Law and Institutional Reform Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Azalina Othman Said.

She said the document would be presented to the Conference of Rulers after the August 12 state elections. 

She said it includes eight proposed amendments to part III of the Federal Constitution along with the first and second schedules of the Federal Constitution, which also covers the issue of citizenship of children born abroad to Malaysian mothers. 

Azalina said the proposed amendments are based on research analyses, engagement sessions, comparative studies of other countries’ legislation, cabinet discussions and technical committee meetings.

“Any proposed amendment to part III of the Federal Constitution related to citizenship matters must be approved by the Conference of Rulers in accordance with the provisions of article 159(5) of the Federal Constitution,” she said in a statement today.

Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu, Penang, Selangor and Negri Sembilan go to the polls on August 12.

Azalina said the proposed amendments also require the consent of Sabah and Sarawak governors in accordance with article 161E(2)(a) of the Federal Constitution.

This, she said, is with regard to amendments that touch on the rights of people born before Malaysia Day to be citizens.

Azalina said the unity government led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is committed to fair and appropriate amendment proposals that consider the views of all stakeholders and voices of the people. – Bernama, July 12, 2023.