Opposing the Denial of Citizenship to Non-Marital Children

Critics of the High Court ruling, including Suhakam, condemn the decision as a violation of children's rights and a step backward for Malaysia's human rights record. They argue that the law should be interpreted in light of international obligations, such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Malaysia has ratified. The ruling, they say, punishes children for circumstances beyond their control and could create a stateless generation. Human rights advocates note that many countries have updated their laws to ensure equal citizenship regardless of birth status. They call on the government to amend the Federal Constitution swiftly to remove discriminatory provisions. Critics also warn that the ruling may burden the state with additional social costs if stateless children are denied public services. They emphasize that the best interests of the child must be paramount, and urge the Attorney General's Chambers to appeal or seek a legislative fix. For them, the court's approach is outdated and harmful.