Constitutional amendment on citizenship conferment: A milestone for gender equality in Malaysia
This amendment represents a crucial step forward for Malaysia in advancing gender equality in citizenship rights.
It is also the result of years of sustained advocacy, not only by Wanita MCA, but also by various civil society groups united in our shared pursuit of gender equality.
This milestone is especially significant, as once the amendment takes effect, Malaysian mothers will have the same legal rights as Malaysian fathers to confer citizenship to their infants born overseas.
It corrects a longstanding discriminatory provision that previously allowed only fathers to pass on the Malaysian citizenship.
This is a meaningful step towards eliminating institutional gender inequality in our country. As both mothers and citizens, women deserve the same legal rights as men, including the right to confer citizenship to their children.
The reform also supports national development by addressing the loss of talent caused by legal inequities.
A fairer legal framework will encourage more Malaysian women professionals abroad to return, along with their families, and contribute to the country's growth.
Simultaneously, we need to acknowledge that discrimination against women still exists in certain legal and administrative systems. In particular, issues related to divorce rights and workplace protections continue to place women at a disadvantage.
True gender equality cannot be achieved through isolated legal amendments or symbolic gestures.
A thorough review of all remaining laws and policies that contain gender bias is essential, with a clear commitment to reform that ensures fair treatment of women across all sectors.
As part of our efforts towards broader systemic reform, we once again highlight the ten petitions put forward by Wanita MCA advocating for gender equality and women's rights in Malaysia.
One key petition calls for the swift passage of the Anti-Discrimination Against Women Bill, to ensure all legislation reflects the fundamental value of gender parity.
Wanita MCA reaffirms our commitment to working closely with both civil society and the government to ensure this constitutional reform is implemented fairly, transparently and effectively.
Every Malaysian mother deserves the full dignity and protection that the law is meant to provide. ‒ Aug 8, 2025
Datuk Wong You Fong is the Wanita MCA national chairperson.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Main image: Al Jazeera
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