KUALA LUMPUR – Stulang assemblyman Andrew Chen clarified that his citizenship briefing programme was designed to raise awareness about statelessness among Malaysians, not to help foreigners apply for citizenship.
Chen said that the programme’s infographic poster and captions were misinterpreted, leading to confusion regarding the event’s primary objective.
“My programme aims to increase awareness and understanding among Malaysians whose family members are dealing with statelessness issues,” he said in a post on Facebook.
“This briefing was intended to provide this group with a clearer understanding of how to interact with relevant government departments, especially the National Registration Department (NRD), the Home Ministry, and the Immigration Department.”
Chen emphasised that the programme did not promise citizenship status to anyone, as citizenship laws are governed by the Federal Constitution and must adhere to NRD processes.
He highlighted that locals from the B40 income group, particularly those married to foreigners and with children, are often most affected by statelessness. His service centres frequently encounter residents facing citizenship issues due to factors like negligence in children’s documentation and family breakdowns.
“The stateless status affects children’s education and healthcare, forces them into labour at a young age, exposes them to social issues, and prevents them from obtaining passports, leading to community ostracisation and the perpetuation of statelessness,” Chen said.
According to a poster shared by DAP’s leadership, the programme was initially scheduled for June 30 in Johor Bahru but was postponed after receiving backlash from netizens.
Critics argued that citizenship matters fall under the Home Ministry’s jurisdiction, not that of a political party, and that the programme could lead to controversies.
Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh called on DAP’s leadership to clarify the matter, sarcastically questioning if the programme would include Bahasa Melayu lessons for citizenship applicants.
PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari likened the programme to “burning” Malaysia, reiterating that such matters are the responsibility of the Home Ministry and NRD. – June 9, 2024