PETALING JAYA: The National Registration Department (NRD) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the technical control and security of the MyKad system to ensure data accuracy and protect the identity of cardholders involved in the government’s targeted subsidy programmes.
This follows Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail’s recent remarks on investigations into alleged misuse of MyKad for the redemption of Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) cash aid.
NRD said it has taken note of the issue and is working closely with the Finance Ministry to improve the technical aspects of identity verification within the aid redemption system.
"As the main provider of citizenship data to the Finance Ministry in implementing the Sara and Budi95 initiatives, NRD assures that all data supplied are official, verified, and cross-checked through the department’s internal security systems," the department said.
The NRD stressed that it views the reported misuse cases seriously and has agreed with the Finance Ministry to introduce several immediate measures, including more frequent data synchronisation between the two agencies.
"The updating and matching of MyKad data, along with the latest chip versions, will now be conducted more regularly to ensure recipient information remains accurate and to prevent the misuse of lost, damaged, or replaced cards," according to the statement.
It added that in the event of MyKad misuse, the cardholder must lodge a police report to enable further investigation by the NRD and Finance Ministry.
The remaining aid balance will then be reimbursed to the rightful recipient.
They said that ongoing system enhancements are being carried out with a focus on data integrity and user security to prevent similar technical issues from recurring in future targeted subsidy implementations.
"The department remains committed to supporting the MADANI government’s policy to ensure subsidies and assistance reach those who are truly eligible, in a safe, transparent, and accountable manner," it said.
