Don’t rush: Home minister urges Malaysians to avoid MyKad replacement frenzy

PORT DICKSON, Sept 15 — The government has cautioned citizens against rushing to replace their MyKad when the new version becomes available on Sept 17, as congestion at National Registration Department (NRD) offices is anticipated. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has urged people to exercise patience, stating that the phased replacement process would be implemented while the current cards would continue to be valid for daily transactions.

"I would like to advise people not to rush to replace their MyKad," he said, adding that there are currently 24 million MyKad cards in circulation, with an average issuance of 180,000 to 200,000 cards each month.

The replacement of the MyKad will not impact subsidy balances or eligibility for subsidies associated with the identity card, as the records are based on the existing MyKad. Saifuddin further clarified that there is no issue concerning subsidy balances, and the department handles between 13,000 and 15,000 cases of unregistered births annually.

He emphasized that the high figure remains concerning despite Malaysia's independence, attributing the lack of birth registrations to various factors such as a lack of information, social problems, and family issues.

Saifuddin stressed the importance of birth registration, stating that it is a fundamental right and should not be overlooked due to financial difficulties or family constraints. He appealed to parents, guardians, and members of the public who possess information on unregistered births to approach NRD offices for assistance.