JOHOR BARU: Food delivery rider R. Rieyshan, 21, has been to the National Registration Department (NRD) office in Setia Tropika twice this week – and had gone home disappointed each time.
“I was told to come back another day as there were already too many people waiting,” he said.
Tired of the wait, he decided to try his luck at the Johor Baru Urban Transformation Centre (UTC).
This time, he was successful, but only after a long wait.
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Rieyshan was among hundreds of people who were rushing to get their MyKads in working order before the start of the Budi95 initiative.
“I decided to come here hoping to finally get my card replaced without having to make a fourth trip.
“I got a new card but it was a long wait.
“It is not really an issue for me as I have a flexible timetable but that is not the case for everyone, especially those working during office hours.
“NRD should consider extending its operating hours,” he said.
Restaurant manager Mohamad Ilham Aziz had taken the day off so he and his wife could have their MyKads replaced together.
“My wife and I also just moved to a new house and need to change our address anyway.
“So, we might as well just get it done now,” he said at the Setia Tropika Home Ministry Complex.
Mohamad Ilham said that while there was no large crowd, the wait was longer than expected.
“Perhaps the NRD could open more counters, or maybe set up temporary counters in malls and other public areas,” he said.
Retiree Edward Tan, 63, also said the government should consider setting up temporary counters in the outskirts to assist the public, especially the seniors.
“It is not a problem for me since I live nearby but I am sure there are many in villages and remote areas who struggle to get their damaged MyKads replaced.
“They are also most likely the group that needs the subsidy more,” he added.
Meanwhile, a petrol station cashier near the Causeway said they were prepared for the full implementation of Budi95 on Tuesday.
“There are bound to be some hiccups but I think it should not be much of an issue.
“Since most of our customers are foreigners or those driving foreign-registered cars, we have to be more alert even without the initiative,” said the man who only wanted to be known as Hassan.
