Malaysia is finally giving the MyKad a big upgrade. According to the National Registration Department (JPN), we can expect a upgraded version of the MyKad to drop as early as next month.
It is a massive jump in terms of technical specifications, with the security elements being boosted from a modest 23 to a whopping 53. It is essentially the identity card equivalent of moving from a basic PIN to a full-on encrypted security key.
So, what is actually under the hood? JPN Director-General Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias has shared that we are looking at laser engraving, UV elements, holograms, and intricate guilloche patterns.
They are also throwing in microtext, QR codes for quick enforcement checks, and a chip that utilises much tougher encryption technology. It is a clear effort to keep up with modern security threats and evolving technology, though the official launch date is still sitting with the Home Ministry for now.
There is a bit of a disappointing news: the new MyKad will not include the Touch ‘n Go feature.
If you are already dreading the queue at the JPN office, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Switching to the new version is not mandatory. If your current MyKad is still in one piece and the chip actually works when you tap it, you are perfectly fine to keep using it.