JOHOR BAHRU, May 8 — Malaysians do not have to rush to change their MyKads when the National Registration Department (NRD) rolls out the new identification documents next month.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Malaysia has over 20 million citizens with the MyKad, adding that there is no requirement for an immediate exchange.

“So, I ask that you don't rush to the National Registration Department on June 1 to exchange them. 

“Take your time,” he told reporters after reviewing the progress of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link project at the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex at the Bukit Chagar Station here.

Saifuddin Nasution said Malaysians are still required by law to possess a MyKad, but are not obliged to immediately replace it with the newly issued version.

He said there is no legal requirement for holders to rush to switch to the new identity card once it is rolled out next month.

“What we are trying to explain is that starting June 1, the new MyKad that comes with improved security features is available,” he said.

The upgraded MyKad will carry 53 security features, more than double the 23 found in the current version.

NRD director-general Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias said yesterday that the enhancements include laser engraving, ultraviolet elements, holograms, guilloche patterns, microtext, QR codes for enforcement use, and a chip with stronger encryption, adding that the card will no longer include the Touch ’n Go function.

The government had previously announced plans to redesign both the MyKad and Malaysian passport within six months as part of efforts to strengthen document security.

The upgrade is part of wider efforts to enhance the credibility of Malaysia’s identity and travel documents, with the Malaysian passport already ranked among the world’s most trusted.