For married couples, having children is one of the means to expand their family. However, for couples who do not have children of their own, they can still raise children through adoption.
What is adoption?
Adoption is the process by which the rights and responsibilities of biological parents towards a child are legally transferred to adoptive parents.
Types of Adoption in Malaysia
- De Facto Adoption (Adoption Registration Act 1952) Act 253
- Applicable to residents in Peninsular Malaysia, including Muslims and non-Muslims
- Child custody period 2 years and above
- Does not require a court order
- A certificate of adoption will be issued to the adoptive parents
- This adoption can be cancelled through the Attorney General's Chambers
- Adoption through Court (Adoption Act 1952) Act 257
- Applicable to non-Muslims only
- Adoption orders issued by the Section Court, High Court and Court of Appeal
- After the adoption order is issued, the birth certificate under the Births and Deaths Act (Act 299) will be replaced with a new birth certificate
Updated date: 18/5/2026
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