Kuala Lampur, March 8 -- Exactly one year ago, civil society groups rallied behind Malaysia's Unity Government as it unveiled plans to amend the Federal Constitution, aiming to grant Malaysian mothers the right to confer citizenship upon their children born overseas - a privilege previously reserved solely for Malaysian fathers.

Since then, significant developments have unfolded, culminating in the introduction of a 'comprehensive' citizenship amendment package by the government. To the dismay of many, this package also included five regressive amendments to strip away the citizenship rights of marginalised Malaysian families, including foundlings, orphans, children born out of wedlock, and adopted children.

Despite relentless efforts a...