Citizenship will be best Merdeka gift for stateless children, says MP

 

Klang MP Charles Santiago says that not only are stateless children unable to achieve their goals, they are open to abuse, exploitation and trafficking. (Putri Purnama Sugua pic)

PETALING JAYA: Klang MP Charles Santiago says the best Merdeka present is to give stateless children citizenship so that they can celebrate Independence Day as citizens of this country.

He said that despite 65 years of independence, the lives of many Malaysian children “remain in shackles” as the government refuses to recognise them, leaving them with no access to education or healthcare.

Relating the heartbreaking stories of many of these children, he said “things must change for these kids”.

“In order for that to happen, the government must review how they assess citizenship applications and communicate to applicants the reasons for rejection,” he said in a statement.

“We need a transparent and streamlined standard operating procedure for citizenship applications to reduce inconsistencies.

“These children, some of whom have become adults, have dreams and ambitions. But not only are they unable to achieve their goals but are open to abuse, exploitation and trafficking.

“So, I urge Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob to think through the issue of child statelessness.” - FMT