New-generation MyKad records 275,785 issuances in first month

KULAI: The National Registration Department (JPN) has issued 275,785 new-generation MyKad nationwide since its launch on Sept 17 until Oct 20, with Johor recording the highest number at 31,392 cards.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the figures reflected a positive response from the public to the new-generation MyKad, which comes with enhanced security features.

He said the new-generation MyKad incorporates 53 security features, compared with 23 in the previous version. These include a transparent window, QR code, ultraviolet features, hologram and microtext.

The enhancements were introduced to ensure the identity card's security features remained relevant to technological advancements, following about 12 years of use of the previous MyKad generation.

"JPN has taken steps to further upgrade the security features. That is why we call it the new-generation MyKad," he said.

"Johor recorded the highest number, with 31,392 cards issued, followed by Kuala Lumpur with 29,601, Selangor (26,736), Sarawak (25,642) and Sabah (22,523)," he told a press conference after officiating the 78th National Registration Day celebration and the launch of the MADANI Adopted Village and MADANI Adopted School initiatives at the Kampung Melayu Sedenak Multipurpose Hall here today.

Saifuddin Nasution said the public need not rush to replace their MyKad, as JPN had assured them that the supply of cards was sufficient to meet demand.

He said about 24 million existing MyKad were currently in circulation, while JPN received an average of 200,000 applications a month for various purposes, including new identity cards, replacements for damaged cards and MyKad issuance to those turning 18.

He said possession of a MyKad was becoming increasingly important due to various government initiatives requiring its use, including purchases of petrol and cooking oil, as well as the redemption of Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA).

"We do not have any projections. We will continue as usual and serve the public. What matters is ensuring that the card supply is sufficient to meet demand from those who choose to switch to the new-generation MyKad," he said.