Passport to less hassle for M’sian globetrotters

The 10-year Malaysian passport has been announced but not finalised. — Filepic

Malaysia’s plan to issue 10-year passports is getting a mixed response, especially as the cost is yet to be announced.

Administrative assistant Sheryl Samuel hoped the five-year travel document would be retained.

Sheryl hopes the government will make an announcement soon.

She believed many would still opt for the five-year passport as the cost of a 10-year one would be higher.

“Hopefully, the cost of the 10-year passport will not be double the current one that has a five-year validity,” she said.

Currently, the five-year passport for Malaysians aged between 13 and 59 costs RM200, while senior citizens and children below 12 years pay RM100.

Sheryl hopes the Home Ministry would reveal the launch date of the longer validity passport soon as well as the cost.

“This will give Malaysians a choice of whether they want to get the five-year or 10-year passport,” she added.

Civil service officer Arthur Petrus Ignatius Ekun said it was timely for Malaysia to start issuing a 10-year passport like Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines.

Arthur Petrus says he will probably opt for a five-year passport.

“This is definitely good news for frequent travellers and businessmen who have to go overseas regularly,” he said, adding that the higher charge would probably not be a deterrent for most.

“Personally, I will still opt for the five-year passport,” said the Sarawakian who works in Johor Baru.

Travel agent executive Badrul Muhaiyat Abdul Bahhari said the 10-year passport was long overdue, and it was a good idea to give Malaysians options.

“I will definitely go for the 10-year passport as I am a tour leader for Malaysian groups holidaying overseas and travel often,” he said.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said Malaysians would in the near future have the option of applying for a 10-year passport.

“We are in the final fine-tuning phase. Efforts will be made to implement it soon,” he was quoted as saying.