KUALA LUMPUR: The online passport application service will be expanded to include passports with a 10-year validity period, starting Monday (Nov 2).
The Immigration Department said members of the public can now apply online for Malaysian International Passports with five-year and 10-year validity periods, beginning Monday.
"This initiative provides more flexibility and convenience for Malaysians to choose the validity period for their passports based on their respective needs," the department said in a Facebook post on Sunday (Nov 1).
Previously, it was reported that the department would be expanding online passport applications to include passports with a 10-year validity period.
Immigration director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban had said the expansion would take place once all passport-issuing offices locally and overseas had completed the implementation rollout and the system was confirmed to be stable.
"Currently, online applications are only available for passports with a five-year validity period.
"We will expand the online application facility for passports with a 10-year validity period gradually," he said.
Zakaria said the public response to the new Malaysian International Passport had been encouraging, with the extended validity period, improved security features and redesigned passport receiving positive feedback.
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He said members of the public had remained calm and were able to plan their passport usage and renewals accordingly.
"However, we will continue to monitor public feedback and the smooth implementation of the new passport to ensure its services remain efficient and meet customers' needs," he added.
Between July 1 and Sept 30, Zakaria said a total of 627,142 passports were issued, comprising 541,994 with a five-year validity period and 85,148 with a 10-year validity period.
"The average waiting time for the issuance of a new passport is about one hour after payment is made, depending on the efficiency of the process and operating conditions at passport-issuing offices.
"While slight delays can occur during peak periods due to an increase in applicants, the situation remains under control.
"We will continue our efforts to ensure the entire process proceeds smoothly and in an orderly manner," he said.
Zakaria also reminded the public that the old version of the passport with more than six months' validity remains valid for travel.
The new passport, introduced on July 1, allows Malaysians aged 18 and above to choose between a five-year or 10-year validity period. The 10-year option is priced at RM350 while the five-year passport remains at RM200.
Zakaria said the upgraded travel document is part of the government's ongoing efforts to strengthen the security of national identity documents, in line with Malaysia's status as one of the world's most powerful passports.
