New MyKad's security, efforts to tackle cross-border haze among topics in Dewan Rakyat

KUALA LUMPUR: During today's Dewan Rakyat sitting, the introduction of a new-generation MyKad, its enhanced security measures, and the collaboration between Malaysia and Indonesia to combat cross-border haze will be key topics. The home minister is set to explain the extent to which the new MyKad's chip technology and identity verification systems can prevent identity theft and misuse of personal data.

Meanwhile, the minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability will discuss the diplomatic measures taken by the Malaysian government with Indonesia to reduce the risk of haze from neighboring countries. Yeo Bee Yin from PH-Puchong will inquire about the current progress of the initiative to train 60,000 skilled workers in the semiconductor industry under the National Semiconductor Strategy, including the training numbers and budget allocated.

Mas Ermieyati Samsudin from Bersatu-Masjid Tanah plans to ask about the percentage of micro-entrepreneurs receiving financial assistance from the ministry's agencies between 2023 and 2026, those who successfully transformed into SMEs, and the failure rate of businesses after three years. Zahir Hassan from PH-Wangsa Maju will ask the transport minister for the implementation schedule of the open payment system for all public transportation services in the Klang Valley.

Following this, the sitting will continue with the Registration of Criminals and Undesirable Persons (Amendment) Bill 2026 for its first reading, and later debate the Supply Bill 2027 at the policy stage after the Prime Minister's presentation of the 2027 Budget on Oct 9. The debate on the 2027 Budget is expected to run from Oct 12 to 22, followed by four days of ministerial wind-down sessions starting Oct 26. The Dewan Rakyat sitting will last for 37 days until Dec 8.