New-look passport, MyKad in the pipeline

New-look passport, MyKad in the pipeline

PUTRAJAYA: The government will introduce a new passport and redesigned MyKad this year that come with enhanced security features.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the move was necessary as both documents are critical national security instruments.

The initiative, he said, is expected to be implemented at the end of the second quarter or the start of the third quarter.

“This is not a change made arbitrarily. These are security documents, and after a certain period, it is our responsibility to introduce new security features in line with technological developments to prevent issues such as forgery,” he said after the 2026 Home Ministry Ministerial Address here yesterday.

Saifuddin said Malaysians could expect the new passport to be introduced within six months.

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He assured the public that existing passports and MyKad are still valid.

“We will announce the changes well in advance, about six months ahead, so there is no need for people to rush or crowd government offices to apply for new passports.

“Existing documents can still be used until they expire,” he said.

He added that the new security specifications had been developed and certified by relevant agencies, including the Immigration and the National Registration departments.

“Every security document has a specific replacement cycle, and Malaysia has reached the stage that requires issuing a new version to ensure that its integrity is maintained.”

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Saifuddin also said the Malaysian passport is among the most trusted, ranking in the top 10 globally based on visa-free or minimal visa requirements.

“Yesterday (Wednesday), I was briefed by the Immigration director-general, together with the chief secretary to the government, on the credibility of our passport. We aim to have a new-look passport within six months,” he said.

Last October, it was reported that NexG Bhd subsidiary, Datasonic Technologies Sdn Bhd, had been awarded a contract from the National Registration Department to supply MyKads.

The six-year contract will start on June 1 this year. The company earlier secured a contract in August to supply Malaysian international passports.