Malaysia is creating comprehensive guidelines to ensure undocumented children can access education and government programmes, says deputy PM
KUCHING: The government is drafting comprehensive guidelines to ensure children without citizenship are not excluded from education or government development programmes.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said a holistic solution is needed to address the issue of undocumented children, particularly in Sarawak.
He acknowledged that a task force had been established previously but noted several aspects still require thorough review.
“Although they were born in Sarawak, some children still do not have, or have yet to register for, their birth documents,” Fadillah said at the Sarawak Women’s Impact Forum 2025.
He emphasised that legal provisions, guidelines and implementation procedures all need examination to prevent further marginalisation.
“Addressing this issue is essential because under any circumstance, no child should be excluded or left behind, especially when it comes to education and access to government programmes,” he added.
Fadillah committed to coordinating with all relevant ministries and agencies to review current actions at both federal and state levels.
“What I will do is ensure that, although the task force is already in place, I will call together all relevant ministries and agencies so that we have a clear understanding of what the government is doing,” he explained.
The one-day forum at the Borneo Cultural Museum brought together Malaysia’s inspiring women changemakers, national leaders and civil society advocates.
Organised by the Women of Impact Core Committee, the forum aimed to spark conversations on issues affecting marginalised communities including poverty, education and women’s emotional distress. – Bernama
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