Nancy said the boy had been living under the care of a guardian (known as Orang Yang Layak dan Sesuai or OYLS) for six years and was now ready for school.

“We will apply to the court for a custody order, so that we can either place the child under the care of (the current) OYLS or act according to the court’s decision,” she said after launching a book on stateless children titled “The Foundling”.

“We’re trying to help, and God willing, after that we will write to the education department so that the child can attend school.”

The boy, Naim Nizar, was found as a newborn in 2019 inside a suitcase in Seri Kembangan, Serdang, with his umbilical cord still attached. He is now living with a family in Alor Setar.

The Kota Setar social welfare department office has appealed for relatives or next-of-kin to come forward to help confirm the child’s identity.

At the same event, Suhakam child commissioner Farah Nini Dusuki said unclear standard operating procedures and inter-agency inaction often leave such children in limbo.

“Every agency has different rules. There’s no proper collaboration. Everyone says, ‘it’s not my job,’ and the child is left behind,” she said.

“Citizenship is everything as it determines access to education, healthcare, and a future.”

Nancy acknowledged the issue and said the ministry would review procedures under the Child Act next year to ensure better coordination and fewer delays.