KUALA LUMPUR – Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has urged non-governmental organisations and activists to meet his ministry halfway on the issue of citizenship amid criticism.
This came after a series of reactions on the now-dropped proposed amendments to remove automatic citizenship for foundlings and stateless children.
“The spirit that we undertake is if we cannot amend all, we must not neglect all (the amendments).
“So initially, we (the ministry) wanted to amend eight provisions but we are proceeding with seven.
“What is important (here) is we want to resolve these issues involving citizenship. Your opinions may be right.
“So, give the government some space, some give and take to try a middle ground because at the end of the day the mission is to ensure the issues involving citizenships are resolved.
“That’s the spirit that we should all undertake.”
He spoke to reporters after attending the 217th Police Day celebration held at the police training centre, Pulapol, here today.
Saifuddin, on March 22, announced that the cabinet dropped a controversial proposed constitutional amendment, after having considered the views of many parties about amending the Federal Constitution to remove safeguards for citizenship for foundlings and stateless children.
Also attending the Police Day event were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, Attorney-General Datuk Ahmad Terrirudin Mohd Salleh and Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, among others. – March 25, 2024