She was replying to a question in the Dewan Rakyat today from P Kasthuriraani ( DAP – Batu Kawan) on whether the government intended to stop unilateral conversion of minors to religions by parents.

“In the case of N Veeran vs S Deepa, the civil courts have ruled that they have jurisdiction over such cases. So there is no need to amend Article 121(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution,” said Nancy.

Kasthuriraani then suggested the formation of a parliamentary select committee to look into the matter.

She also asked how far the initiative to amend the Law Reform Act (Marriage and Divorce) 1976 had progressed.

Nancy reaffirmed the government’s stand to amend the Law Reform Act (LRA), saying: “It is a policy decision. There wouldn’t be a draft amendment if we did not want to amend it.”

Nancy said Minister in Prime Minister’s Department Jamil Khir Baharom was currently consulting with state Islamic religious bodies and NGOs as there would be amendments to shariah laws as well.

She said Section 51 of the LRA would be amended. “If one party converts, the non-converting partner can petition for divorce within three months,” Nancy added.