KUALA LUMPUR: An upgraded version of the MyKad incorporating advanced security features to counter identity fraud, prevent data leaks and improve functionality will be issued soon.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Anuar Nasarah, who disclosed this, said the new MyKad to be issued by the National Registration Department (NRD) will be enhanced with the latest security technology, with laser engraving and holograms to keep with latest security developments internationally.

“This will curb identity fraud, misuse of identity card and also prevent data leaks. It is made of polycarbonate material that has been tested for durability in accredited laboratories and is equipped with a security chip with a larger deposit capacity for enhanced security and encryption,” he told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.

Shamsul Anuar said after the new MyKad is issued, the existing version will be phased out due to its obsolete security features.

The ministry, through NRD, was conducting a market study to ensure the new MyKad offered value for money with the production cost not burdening the government, he added.

On enforcement activities against the abuse of the MyKad, the deputy minister said as of 2022 until this Oct 3, NRD arrested 519 persons who committed offences under the National Registration Regulations 1990.

He added that of the 190 charged, 130 of them were found with false MyKad while the remaining held the MyKad of others.

Shamsul Anuar said 2,103 NRD enforcement operations were conducted nationwide with 497 integrated operations held with other enforcement agencies.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/11/21/new-mykad-gets-security-boost