Malaysia's new MyKad rollout will not affect government aid

The National Registration Department (JPN) has announced that the rollout of the new generation MyKad will not affect the receipt of government aid or subsidies. Muhammad Asraf Sukadi, Director of the Identity Card Division, clarified that the new cards remain official identification documents and can be used for verification and redemption processes required by various agencies.

Regarding concerns over the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) program, officials stated that balances and eligibility are stored within the SARA system rather than on the physical card itself. The MyKad serves only as a medium for identity verification during purchases at participating outlets.

The new MyKad features 53 security features, an increase from the previous 23. Notably, Touch ’n Go functionality is no longer integrated into the MyKad; users wishing to continue using the service must use the Touch ’n Go eWallet or a separate card. While existing holders do not need to replace their cards unless they are damaged, certain older versions must be updated. New cards can be issued at 40 JPN branches equipped with same-day printing facilities.