KUALA LUMPUR – The new-generation MyKad remains Malaysia’s official identity document and can continue to be used for government aid and subsidy programmes, the National Registration Department (NRD) said.
Identity Card Division director Muhammad Asraf Sukadi said the new MyKad could be used for assistance and subsidy programmes that require the card for verification or redemption, subject to eligibility requirements set by the relevant agencies, Bernama reported.
“People need not worry that the introduction of the new-generation MyKad will result in their government aid or subsidies being discontinued.
“The NRD is working closely with the relevant ministries and agencies to ensure the continuity of services and assistance for eligible recipients,” he said in a statement today.
He also assured recipients that replacing an existing MyKad with the new-generation version would not affect their balance or eligibility under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme.
“The SARA balance and eligibility are not stored in the MyKad but recorded in the SARA system. The MyKad serves as a means of verifying recipients and making purchases of essential goods at participating shops and supermarkets,” he said.
Muhammad Asraf said existing MyKad holders were not required to replace their cards unless their current cards were damaged.
However, holders of the Plastic Identity Card (KPP), High-Quality Identity Card (KPT) and MyKad without a ghost image are required to replace their cards with the new-generation MyKad.
“The implementation of the new-generation MyKad has taken into account the requirements of systems and services that use the MyKad.
“Adjustments will be made in stages with the relevant parties to ensure that public services continue to run smoothly,” he said.
Applications for the new-generation MyKad can be made from today at 40 NRD branches equipped with printing facilities, with cards available for collection on the same day.
At NRD branches without printing facilities, the cards will be ready within five working days.
The new-generation MyKad features enhanced security measures, including a dynamic security hologram and transparent window on the front, as well as an enforcement QR code and dual-interface chip on the back. – September 17, 2026