MEMBERS of the public have described the issuance of the new-generation MyKad, equipped with 53 security features and rolled out today, as a positive improvement in terms of technology and security, while also strengthening identity protection.
The new-generation MyKad, issued by the National Registration Department (NRD), is the seventh-generation identity card and has been upgraded from 23 to 53 modern, secure features to meet current needs.
Nineteen-year-old student Puteri Nur Syafiqah Jailani said she was excited to receive the new-generation MyKad on the first day of its issuance, describing the replacement process at NRD as easy and fast.
“Actually, I did not know that the new MyKad would be issued today. When I arrived at NRD, I saw a notice about the new MyKad.
“I immediately called my mother and was excited to have it. The security features are definitely better, and I also saw the announcement about the improved security features on TikTok,” she said.
Speaking to reporters here, she advised the public to make an appointment before going to NRD to facilitate the MyKad replacement process.
“If we have made an appointment, the process of getting a queue number is faster and the waiting time is not long,” said Puteri Nur Syafiqah, who lives in Putrajaya.
Shaza Nuizeaan Shafie, 48, from Puchong, Selangor, said the process of replacing the MyKad with the new-generation version was very easy and that the new card was also more attractive.
She said she went to the Putrajaya NRD to apply for identity cards for her two children – Nur Ataa Iqra Abdul Wahab, 21, and Nur Amnaa Irbah, 12.
“I made an appointment for 9.50 am but arrived early. Alhamdulillah, the process was indeed fast, and the new MyKad is also very attractive. It has several new security features, which are very good for protecting the identity of the cardholder,” she said.
Forty-seven-year-old Khairul Anuar Azizan, meanwhile, praised NRD staff for handling the issuance of the new-generation MyKad quickly and efficiently.
“The process was really quick, and we did not have to wait for a long time. Many are excited about this new MyKad,” he said.
Private-sector employee Foo Yew Jin, 36, said the new-generation MyKad looked more secure and had more enhanced safety features.
“The card looks sturdier, so it may be harder to break. Perhaps it will be further improved and have more functions in the future,” he said.
On Tuesday (Sept 15), Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail advised members of the public not to rush to replace their MyKad with the new version when applications opened today.
He said the replacement exercise for the new MyKad, which comes with about 50 additional security features, would be carried out in phases, while existing cards would remain valid for daily transactions.
Starting today, applications for the new-generation MyKad can be made at 40 NRD branches equipped with printing centres that can produce the cards on the same day.
At NRD branches without printing facilities, one can still apply for the new-generation MyKad, with the cards ready within five working days.
The new-generation MyKad incorporates security elements such as a Dynamic Security Hologram and Transparent Window on the front, as well as an Enforcement QR Code and a Dual-Interface Chip on the back. ‒ Sept 17, 2026
Main image: Bernama
