PETALING JAYA: Malaysians do not need to rush to obtain the new MyKad with digital enhancements, as it will only be compulsory once the government’s ecosystem is fully ready, says Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail (pic).
When contacted, Saifuddin Nasution said the transition to the new MyKad with enhanced security features would be gradual and implemented in four phases, with the first phase starting in June next year, covering the production and supply of the upgraded MyKad.
“In the second phase, we will begin issuing the new MyKad for all new applications and replacements.
“The third phase would expand adoption nationwide as agencies and services shift to QR-based verification,” said Saifuddin Nasution.
It is at the fourth phase when it would be compulsory for Malaysian citizens to have the new MyKad.
“The National Registration Department (NRD) is ready, with procurement in place, production capacity secured and back-end integration with ministries underway.
“The larger challenge now is ensuring the entire ecosystem, from government agencies to private services, transitions smoothly and Malaysians understand when and how to upgrade,” said Saifuddin Nasution.
On Nov 26, Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the NRD plans to roll out three new identity cards starting June 2026.
The new MyKad, MyTentera and MyPoCA (IDs of soldiers and police personnel) will feature upgraded security enhancements aimed at preventing forgery and improving digital verification.
“The new MyKad comes with several major security and digital enhancements. The most visible addition is a QR-code verification feature that allows authorities to instantly confirm the card’s authenticity via a secure digital check.
“The card uses a more advanced chip, stronger encryption and upgraded anti-forgery elements such as laser-engraving, improved materials and enhanced security printing. In short, it is designed for a world where identity checks are increasingly digital.
“The upgrade is driven by rising concerns over forgery, identity fraud and misuse of personal data, as well as the national push toward digital government services.
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“A stronger and digitally verifiable MyKad helps prevent fraud, protects public funds, strengthens borders and immigration controls, and supports more secure access to subsidies and benefits.”
Saifuddin Nasution said this will bring Malaysia’s national identification document system closer to international standards.
The Home Minister stated that Malaysians need not worry about the migration to the new MyKad.
“There is no need to rush to NRD to change your existing MyKad.
“Existing cards will remain valid for now. Malaysians will only need to upgrade when the government announces a formal transition period or when their card is due for renewal or replacement.”
He said the current MyKad would be discontinued on a date to be announced later.
“The journey to create a secure and enhanced MyKad has not been without challenges.
“These include managing data security and privacy risks. A more digital ID must be carefully protected against breaches.
“We also need to ensure the infrastructure is ready, as all agencies, businesses and rural areas must support QR-based checks. With millions of cardholders, the transition must be well-paced to avoid congestion or confusion,” said Saifuddin Nasution.
The term MyKad was first introduced in 2001 and refers to the identity card used to identify Malaysian citizens.
MyKad was one of the seven flagship applications under the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) initiative.
The goal then was to modernise the national identity system and offer a digital platform that integrates multiple applications in a single card.
According to NRD director-general Badrul Hisham Alias, MyKad continues the evolution of the country’s ID system.
“It started with the paper card (1948-1960), then blue plastic ID cards (1960-1990), followed by the hibiscus cards (high-quality IDs from 1990-2001) and now the modern MyKad.”
“Over the last two decades, four versions have been introduced, with the latest version launched in 2012.
“The first version used plastic before being upgraded to Polikad 2.0, followed by the current version, which includes additional features like a ‘ghost image’ to improve security,” said Badrul Hisham.
The current MyKad is not fully digital but supports various government transactions and services by integrating digital applications like driving licence, international passport information, basic health data and e-wallets.
The government also uses MyKad to distribute financial aid.
According to the National Registration Regulations 1990, MyKad cannot be held or used by others except by the owner, and offenders may face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to RM20,000 or both.
