What will happen to vulnerable children if citizenship laws are amended?

I am writing as a concerned member of a community-based organisation that provides direct services to children in need. 

The proposed amendments to the Federal Constitution, particularly the removal of Section 1(e), have ignited a firestorm of worry within me. 

For the past 18 years, I have dedicated myself to answering calls and messages, and providing a safe haven for abandoned children. Armed with a second-hand baby car seat and a bag filled with essential supplies, I have picked up these innocent souls from hospitals, homes, a nightclub, waiting at a bus stand once, ensuring their safety and legal protection. I have worked closely with the local authorities, including the Social Welfare Department, to ensure their proper care and placement within our shelter or through the government system.

My colleagues and I have, every day, witnessed firsthand the struggles and challenges faced by foundlings, children born out of wedlock, and stateless children adopted by Malaysian parents. These vulnerable children deserve equal access to rights and services, no more and certainly no less than any other child in Malaysia.

Child abandonment cases have been on the rise, with potential abandonment incidents occurring as frequently as this week – I have three children whom adults don’t want anymore and insist I pick up. All are stateless. 

It breaks my heart to see children being cast aside due to the inconvenience or changing circumstances of their adoptive families. These children, who have already experienced abandonment and a loss of identity, deserve better. They deserve the protection and stability that Section 1(e) provides.

Removing Section 1(e) would further marginalise and endanger these children. It would deny them their right to citizenship, perpetuating a cycle of injustice and discrimination. 

We cannot allow this to happen. As a society, we must step up and ensure that these children have access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for a bright future.

I urge you, as the voice of the people, to shed light on this critical issue and advocate for the preservation of Section 1(e) in the Federal Constitution. 

Our nation's commitment to justice and equality relies on our ability to champion the rights and well-being of all children, regardless of their circumstances. We must act swiftly and decisively to protect their rights and safeguard their future.

Time is of the essence. We cannot remain complacent while the rights and welfare of these vulnerable children hang in the balance. Let us come together, stand up for justice, and ensure that no child is left behind.

Hartini Zainudin is a child activist and co-founder of Yayasan Chow Kit.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the position of MalaysiaNow.