Putrajaya — The National Registration Department (JPN) launched the new-generation MyKad on Wednesday, drawing positive reactions from early users who praised its enhanced security features and maintained access to various government benefits.
Visitors at the JPN headquarters included a diverse mix of individuals applying for or replacing their identity cards. Among them was Shaza Nuizeaan Shafie, a 48-year-old contact centre supervisor from Puchong, who brought her two daughters, Nur Ataa Iqra Abdul Wahab, 21, a student at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam, and Nur Amnaa Irbah Abdul Wahab, 12. Shaza described the renewal process as efficient, noting they completed the application in under 10 minutes despite a busy environment. She also expressed satisfaction that the new MyKad continued to facilitate access to government aid programs such as Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) and Budi95.
Similarly, Puteri Nur Syafiqah Jailani, a 19-year-old UiTM Alor Gajah student from Putrajaya, highlighted the modernized design and comprehensive security upgrades of the new card. She outlined the straightforward procedure involving an online appointment, photo capture, payment, and subsequent collection of the card. Airport worker Nurul Shahira Izati Ramly, 24, also expressed enthusiasm about the replacement, citing increased personal security as a key benefit.
Other users noted specific features such as the holographic design and the increased number of security elements, now totaling 53 compared to the previous 23, including those visible only under ultraviolet light. Foo Yew Jin, 36, appreciated the incorporation of the hologram and emphasized the importance of improved security. Customers in Johor Baru conveyed similar views; for instance, 21-year-old customer service consultant Eddy Edry Eddy Affendy underscored the necessity of enhanced safeguards amid rising scams and identity theft. Fishmonger Chang Kok Wah, 57, had opted to upgrade due to a malfunctioning chip on his current card, which hindered transactions such as petrol purchases.
Staff at JPN noted general unawareness among some applicants about the new features, but most were pleased to receive updated cards. S. Parwathy, a 34-year-old customer service officer, mentioned that she broke her previous MyKad shortly before the rollout and welcomed the timing of her replacement.
Muhammad Asraf Sukadi, director of JPN’s Identification Card Division, clarified that existing MyKad holders in good condition are not required to replace their cards immediately. However, holders of outdated Plastic Identity Cards (KPP), High-Quality Identity Cards (KPT), and MyKad lacking holographic images must transition to the new version. He also explained that while the new card serves as a verification tool for government assistance such as Sara, the balance and eligibility data are stored in the respective systems, not on the MyKad itself. Thus, upgrading to the new card will not affect recipients’ benefit entitlements.
The new MyKad incorporates several security enhancements, including dynamic security features, a QR code, enforcement elements, a transparent window, and a dual-interface chip, aiming to bolster protection against fraud and support digital verification processes. The rollout reflects Malaysia's ongoing efforts to improve identity authentication and safeguard citizens’ personal data.