Does the foreign parent need to be present for the application of the child’s LTSVP?

This is dependent on your local Immigration Office as they have the discretion to seek further proof/ evidence in any application. There have been cases where Malaysian mothers could apply for their child’s LTSVP without the foreign husband’s presence (so only the husband’s passport photocopy was presented without the original) and there have been cases where the foreign parent was requested to be present. It would be advisable to check with your Immigration Office on their requirements beforehand and provide a valid reason as to why the foreign parent is unable to be present if requested.