Dual citizenship: Govt not in favour but will study proposal

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the government will study proposals brought by the Malaysian diaspora on dual citizenship.

According to Bernama, he said the administration must discuss the matter further by assessing its implications if implemented, as it would involve a major policy decision.

“The Foreign Affairs Ministry and Home Ministry will put up a paper and discuss its implications.

“For now, we are not in favour but since there are requests, we'll at least look at it and see whether we need to adjust or not," he said during a dinner with the Malaysian diaspora and students today in New York.

Anwar was responding to questions on whether there was a possibility for the government to allow dual citizenship for Malaysians.

This was to encourage Malaysian professionals living abroad to contribute to the country's development, without having to choose between their homeland and adopted countries.

Anwar, who arrived in the city on Wednesday, had earlier delivered Malaysia's National Statement at the 78th United Nations General Assembly.

Touching on brain drain, Anwar said the government was looking into ways to attract skilled Malaysians to return and contribute to the country.

Anwar also said the relevant ministries including the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry, Economy Ministry and Higher Education Ministry are currently engaging those who can contribute to return and be placed in specific areas of competence to help Malaysia.

Getting back talents

“I am sure this can be done, it is ongoing... and we should, as you know we are now encountering the problem of brain drain in the past years.

“Top scholars, economists, accountants are leaving (the country) or have left, so now we have to make sure that we have a system that could encourage them to come back,” he said.

Meanwhile, Anwar said the government has set up a committee to review the salary scheme of public servants but any restructuring needs to be done according to the country’s financial position.

"What I have inherited is RM1.5 trillion debt, 5.6 percent deficit, which means if I'm a responsible leader, I have to gradually reduce the debt.

“..and if we are responsible in terms of prudent economic policy, then we will have to reduce the deficit, from 5.6 last year to 5.3 percent this year, and hoping to reach five percent in 2024," he said.

‘Party members free to criticise me, it’s part of democracy’

Aussie lawyer’s book chronicles Anwar's ‘roller-coaster’ ride to power

PM: There is public consensus on LGBT but harassment not condoned

COMMENT | Anwar, making Malaysians proud at the global stage

Climate change: Anwar urges developed countries to fulfil commitment

PM calls for concerted multilateral effort by UN to resolve conflicts