English 
Malay By: Cso Platform For Reform – Child Cluster
Organisation/ Individual: Child Rights Coalition Malaysia (CRCM)
Policy Code: 2e Child
Problem Statement and Current Policy:
1. Non-citizen children of a Malaysian parent are designated as foreigners in public medical facilities, which carry additional fees compared to citizens as per the 2016 amendments to the Fees Act (Medical) 1951. This leaves children in vulnerable positions when their guardian is unable to afford these higher rates. 2. Two classifications of non-citizen children who are allowed to enjoy health care services alike to citizens: those born in Malaysia under the age of 12, holding a Malaysian Birth Certificate and with at least one parent who is a citizen or PR holder, and those under the age of 18, adopted by Malaysian parents and with certified adoption papers.
Value(s) and Belief:
In the best interest of the child, all non-citizen children should have access to vaccinations and health care at similar rates as Malaysian children.
Proposal of Solution and Call for Action:
1. Allow all children (up to the age of 18) with either parent Malaysian to access public healthcare with the same rate as Malaysians, upon provision of the Malaysian parent’s IC. This includes children born overseas to Malaysians who may not hold a Malaysian Birth Certificate. 2. Provide healthcare services for undocumented or stateless children. 3. Grant vaccinations and immunisation programmes free-of-charge to non-citizen children, and maternal care for the mother. 4. Include non-citizen children in the national school system in the regular school health, dental check-ups, and other initiatives of the Ministry of Health (MoH).
Additional information:
Non-citizen children of Malaysians pay foreigner rates even when either parent is Malaysian. This is especially disadvantageous to those with children with disabilities or those who require long-term treatment. Notable issues: 1. The unaffordable cost of healthcare makes it difficult for parents and children alike to access essential services, including immunisation programmes, vaccinations, maternal and child care. 2. Non-citizen children in the Malaysian National School system are not included in mandatory general health and dental check-ups, booster shots and other initiatives overseen by the Ministry of Health. 3. Amidst a pandemic, access to healthcare becomes especially crucial. It must be guaranteed to every child. In such circumstances, a child’s life can be endangered as the cost of treatment is far too expensive.