KUALA LUMPUR: After more than two decades, Malaysia will introduce the New Structure MyKad in June.
The phased rollout replaces the MyKad, which was first introduced on Sept 5, 2001.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail previously said the next-generation MyKad is intended to strengthen the national identity system through the adoption of improved technology and security features.
National Registration Department director-general Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias said the New Structure MyKad will feature 53 security elements, compared with 23 in the current version.
Among the enhancements are QR codes for verification and enforcement purposes, holograms, microtext, ultraviolet security features, laser engraving and a chip with a higher level of encryption.
The rollout of the New Structure MyKad is expected to be officially launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on a later date.
As an initial step, the department announced that the new card will be issued at its headquarters in Putrajaya and 18 selected department offices through an appointment system before being expanded nationwide in stages.
The department also advised the public not to rush to replace their MyKad, as the rollout will be carried out gradually.
Priority will be given to applicants who make appointments through the JPN Appointment System, as well as holders of Plastic Identity Cards (KPP), High-Quality Identity Cards (KPT) and Version 1 MyKad.
"Holders of KPP, KPT and Version 1 MyKad are required to replace their cards with the New Structure MyKad in stages within three years," the department said on Monday (June 1).
The department assured that existing identity cards remain valid for all official transactions, including the redemption of subsidies and government assistance.
For further information, the public may visit the department's official website at www.jpn.gov.my or its official social media channels.
Malaysia's national identification system was introduced in 1948 with paper-based identity cards in Peninsular Malaysia before being extended to Sabah and Sarawak.
The system later evolved to plastic identity cards in the 1960s, followed by the introduction of high-quality identity cards in the 1980s.
In 2001 the MyKad was launched. The technology was further enhanced in 2012. The New Structure MyKad represents the latest step in the continuing evolution of the country's identity system. – Bernama
