The Immigration Department and the National Registration Department (JPN) will introduce a new version of the Malaysian passport and MyKad within the next six months.
The identity document will be improved in terms of design and equipped with new security features.
The main purpose of the improvements is to strengthen the security level of the document in line with changes in technology and current needs, including combating MyKad counterfeiting.
Home Minister (KDN), Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stressed that the people do not need to rush to renew their own passports and MyKads because they can still be used until their expiration date.
He also stated that this implementation is an important achievement for the government in its efforts to strengthen the security of the country's identity and travel documents.
Saifuddin also said that the Malaysian passport is now ranked third most trusted in the world based on the level of visa-free travel enjoyed by every citizen.
The statement was made when he attended a press conference of the Home Minister's Mandate Council yesterday.
The ceremony was also attended by Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Ptchay, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN), Datuk Awang Alik Jeman, and Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah.
