GRS MPs Discuss Constitutional Amendment on Citizenship Laws

Behind Closed Doors Meeting

In a recent closed-door meeting, eight Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) aligned MPs gathered to discuss the upcoming constitutional amendment on citizenship laws. The meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, took place during a pre-council Parliament meeting at his official residence Sri Gaya in Kota Kinabalu.

Briefing on Amendment

During the meeting, a briefing was presented by the Home Ministry’s Registration Department and Organisation Division, Deputy Undersecretary Mimmi Suriati Mat Khalid, outlining the proposed amendment.

MPs in Attendance

The MPs in attendance at the meeting were:

• Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan (Keningau)
• Datuk Armizan Ali (Papar)
• Datuk Shahelmey Yahya (Putatan)
• Datuk Jonathan Yassin (Ranau)
• Datuk Andi Muhammad Suryady Bandy (Kalabakan)
• Datuk Matbali Musa (Sipitang)
• Datuk Lo Su Fui (Tawau)
• Riduan Rubin (Tenom)
  

  Importance of the Amendment
  

  The proposed constitutional amendments have sparked opposition from local non-governmental organizations and activists. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on displaced natives and the increase in stateless individuals in Sabah.

  Key Concerns
  

  The key concern revolves around the proposal to remove automatic citizenship for children born to Malaysian permanent residents. This change could have implications for access to education, healthcare, and employment for stateless individuals, particularly those from rural and mixed-parentage communities.

  Constitutional Amendment Details
  

  The Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2024, initially tabled in the Dewan Rakyat in March of this year, includes provisions such as:

• Granting citizenship to overseas-born children of Malaysian women
• Lowering the age limit for citizenship applications by registration from 21 to 18
  

  Next Steps
  

  A second reading of the amendment is expected to take place during the upcoming parliamentary session.

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  In analyzing the content, it is evident that the proposed constitutional amendments on citizenship laws in Sabah have far-reaching implications for the state’s residents. The removal of automatic citizenship for children born to Malaysian permanent residents could significantly impact stateless individuals, particularly those from vulnerable communities with limited access to documentation.

  The concerns raised by local NGOs and activists highlight the need for careful consideration and evaluation of the proposed changes. The outcome of the upcoming parliamentary session and the decisions made regarding the constitutional amendments will have a direct impact on the rights and well-being of individuals in Sabah.

  As investors and financial professionals, it is crucial to monitor developments in legislative changes that could impact the social and economic landscape of a region. Understanding the implications of such amendments can help in making informed decisions and assessing potential risks and opportunities in the market.