KUCHING: The new-generation MyKad comes with 53 security features, more than double the 23 found on the existing card, as the National Registration Department (NRD) strengthens protection against counterfeiting, manipulation and misuse.
Sarawak NRD’s Director, Mahathir Bujang, said the upgraded identity card featured improvements to its physical security, including the use of polycarbonate material, laser engraving, a Ghost Image and enhanced chip technology.
“Apart from its attractive design, improvements have also been made to the physical security features of the new MyKad.
“The new MyKad is equipped with 53 security features, compared with 23 security features on the existing MyKad,” he said to Sarawak Tribune today.
Mahathir said the enhanced security features were intended to make the MyKad more difficult to counterfeit, manipulate or misuse, while increasing confidence in the authenticity of identity documents used for various official transactions.
He said existing MyKad holders did not need to replace their cards with the New Generation MyKad as long as their current cards were not damaged and remained usable for daily transactions.
However, holders of the Plastic Identity Card (KPP), High-Quality Identity Card (KPT), and MyKad without a Ghost Image are required to replace their cards with the New Generation MyKad.
According to information published on the NRD’s official web portal, the new MyKad uses high-durability polycarbonate material, replacing conventional plastic and providing greater resistance to bending, breaking and cracking during prolonged daily use.
Its physical design also incorporates intricate Guilloche patterns and Rainbow Printing, with colour tones changing according to the viewing angle as additional security elements.
The card’s personal particulars and photograph are laser-engraved directly into its inner layers, making attempts to scrape or alter the information difficult without damaging the card.
The Ghost Image, meanwhile, is a smaller secondary portrait of the cardholder laser-engraved into the card to strengthen protection against photograph manipulation and identity theft.
The new MyKad also features enhanced smart-chip technology, including 80K/144K EEPROM capacity for secure and rapid processing of biometric fingerprint data.
The chip operates using the Java Card Operating System (JCOS) and supports multiple applications, including Touch ‘n Go, MEPS banking applications and public health data, according to the department.
Other security elements include a Dynamic Security Hologram and Transparent Window on the front, while the back features an Enforcement QR Code and Dual-Interface Chip.
Applications for the new-generation MyKad can be made at 40 NRD branches equipped with printing centres, where cards can be produced on the same day.
At NRD branches without printing facilities, applicants can still apply for the new-generation MyKad, with the cards ready within five working days.
