The National Registration Department (NRD) will begin issuing the new generation of MyKad today, featuring 53 security measures compared with 23 on the previous version.
The NRD said the upgraded identity card was developed to meet changing security and technological needs, with enhancements made to its design, structure and protection against misuse.
A total of 40 NRD branches have been equipped with printing facilities to issue the new MyKad.
“After more than two decades, the time has come for a new generation to take its place, bringing improvements to the MyKad’s design, structure and security features,” the department said.
Among the new security features are a QR code for verification and enforcement purposes, hologram technology, microtext, ultraviolet security features, laser engraving and a chip with stronger encryption capabilities.
The upgraded MyKad is expected to strengthen identity verification while reducing the risk of forgery and misuse.
The new MyKad was previously reported to be available by appointment at the NRD headquarters in Putrajaya and 18 selected NRD offices before being rolled out nationwide in stages.
The phased implementation is intended to ensure a smooth and orderly rollout while preventing congestion at NRD counters.
