Malaysia rolls out its next-generation MyKad today with 53 security features, more than double the 23 on the current card, but without Touch ‘n Go (TNG) functionality that many Malaysians have relied on for years.
The new card begins issuing across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan from 17 September, starting with 40 selected National Registration Department (JPN) and UTC locations equipped to print the card on the same day. National Registration Department director-general Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias has described the upgrade as a major step in strengthening Malaysia’s identity system against forgery and cyber threats.
According to SoyaCincau, the new MyKad replaces the current plastic body with polycarbonate, a material chosen for its durability against heat, chemicals and physical wear. The card also introduces a security hologram that shifts its three-dimensional visual effect depending on the viewing angle, UV security features on both sides that reveal hidden patterns under ultraviolet light, and Guilloche patterns made of fine, complex lines designed to deter reproduction.
A transparent window has been incorporated into the card as an additional physical authentication feature, and a QR code on the rear is intended to support verification and enforcement. The upgraded chip uses a dual-interface design, meaning the card can be read through both conventional contact-based readers and contactless NFC readers, Malay Mail reported.
Malaysia first introduced the multipurpose smart card in September 2001, making it one of the earliest national ID cards worldwide to combine multiple functions. The security chip was enhanced in 2012, and the New Structure MyKad represents the latest step in that evolution, with the government citing increased sophistication in identity fraud and document forgery as the primary driver for the overhaul.
From the looks of it, the 12-digit identification number remains unchanged. It still retains the six-digit date of birth (YYMMDD) followed by a two-digit state code and another four-digit unique identifier, SoyaCincau noted. Anyone pulling out their current MyKad will recognise the numbering format immediately.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has urged Malaysians not to rush to JPN offices when the new card starts rolling out. There are approximately 24 million MyKad cards currently in circulation, and JPN typically issues between 180,000 and 200,000 cards each month. Existing cards remain valid for all official transactions, including the redemption of subsidies and government assistance.
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 older card versions, including Plastic Identity Cards (KPP), High-Quality Identity Cards (KPT) and Version 1 MyKad. These holders are required to replace their cards with the New Structure MyKad within three years.
The most notable omission is Touch ‘n Go. JPN has confirmed that the new-generation MyKad will not include TNG functionality. Users who have relied on their MyKad for public transport fares or retail payments will need to switch to the Touch ‘n Go eWallet or purchase a separate TNG card. Those with existing TNG balances on their current MyKad can check validity through the TNG eWallet app and request a refund through the TNG Portal if the card has expired.
For JPN branches not equipped with printing facilities, the new MyKad will take around five working days to produce. The phased approach is intended to avoid congestion at service counters while ensuring a smooth transition to what the government describes as a more secure national identity system.
