KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 – Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has assured Malaysians that there is no need to rush to replace their MyKad when the new version is introduced on 1 June 2026.
He said the law only requires citizens aged 12 and above to possess a MyKad, but does not make immediate replacement compulsory for existing cardholders.
The National Registration Department’s upgraded MyKad will feature 53 security elements, more than double the current 23.
Including holograms, laser engraving, microtext and enhanced encryption. Saifuddin reminded the public that over 20 million Malaysians already hold valid MyKad cards.
And should continue using them normally. He urged citizens to “take your time,” emphasising that the rollout is meant to improve security, not cause inconvenience or urgency.
