The public has been urged not to use photos generated or altered using artificial intelligence (AI) technology when applying for a Malaysian passport.
According to the Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia (JIM), submitting AI-generated images or false information in passport applications is considered a serious offence and may result in legal action under the Passport Act 1966 (Act 150).
The department stressed that applicants must ensure the photos submitted are original, clear and fully comply with the official passport photo specifications set by the immigration authorities.
“Any fake photo or false information submitted may cause the application to be rejected, and applicants could face action under existing laws,” JIM said in a statement posted on Facebook.
The department also reminded the public to ensure passport photos have even lighting, a clearly visible face without shadows and are not digitally altered using applications or AI technology.
Authorities said the use of genuine photographs is crucial to ensure smooth identity verification processes and to prevent potential fraud or identity manipulation.
The warning comes amid growing public use of AI-powered editing tools capable of heavily modifying facial features and generating highly realistic images, raising concerns over security and authenticity in official documents.
