It also clarified that recipients of the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) scheme would not lose their balance or eligibility when receiving the New Generation MyKad.
PUTRAJAYA: The introduction of the New Generation MyKad will not affect eligible recipients’ access to government aid and subsidies, the National Registration Department (NRD) has assured.
The NRD said the new identity card could continue to be used for government aid and subsidies that rely on MyKad as a means of verification or redemption, subject to the eligibility requirements set by the relevant agencies.
It also clarified that recipients of the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) scheme would not lose their balance or eligibility when receiving the New Generation MyKad.
The department said SARA balances and eligibility were not stored in the MyKad, but recorded in the SARA system. The card is used to verify recipients and facilitate purchases of essential goods at participating shops and supermarkets.
The New Generation MyKad will be issued in stages from today, with improvements to its design, physical security features and functionality.
The NRD said eligible identity card applicants whose applications have no issues and meet all stipulated requirements would receive the new MyKad from today.
Applications submitted at NRD branches equipped with printing facilities could be completed on the same day, while those made at branches without such facilities would be processed within five working days.
However, existing MyKad holders do not need to replace their cards solely because of the introduction of the New Generation MyKad, provided their cards are not damaged.
The NRD said holders of the Plastic Identity Card (KPP), High-Quality Identity Card (KPT) and MyKad without a ghost image would be required to replace their cards with the New Generation MyKad.
The new MyKad will retain the existing identity card number, while the information on the card will continue to be based on the NRD’s official records and remain subject to prevailing regulations.
The MyKad will also remain the official identity document for Malaysian citizens and can continue to be used for government transactions, subject to the requirements of the relevant agency.
For banking and other services that use MyKad, the NRD said adjustments would be made progressively with relevant parties to ensure transactions continue smoothly.
However, the new MyKad will no longer include Touch ’n Go functionality.
Users who wish to continue using Touch ’n Go services can do so through the Touch ’n Go eWallet or a separate Touch ’n Go card.
The NRD said fees for replacing a MyKad would depend on the category of application and the rates prescribed by the department.
It said the transition would be implemented in stages and in a controlled manner to ensure that identity-related matters, government aid and subsidies continued without disruption.
Members of the public do not need to visit NRD offices solely to replace their existing MyKad. Those wishing to replace their cards can submit applications according to NRD procedures.
Applicants are encouraged to make appointments through the NRD’s appointment system to facilitate counter services.
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