Kuala lumpur: The National Registration Department (JPN) will offer free replacement of damaged MyKad chips nationwide from Sept 23 to Oct 7, in support of the BUDI MADANI RON95 fuel subsidy programme (BUDI95). Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the initiative, available at all JPN offices and counters, is expected to cost the government approximately RM714,660.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, recent data shows an average of 43,000 chip replacement applications per month. The government will fully bear the cost to ensure technical issues with MyKad do not hinder eligible citizens from accessing BUDI95 subsidies, Saifuddin noted in a statement. He urged Malaysians to maintain their MyKad in good condition, highlighting its importance not only as an identification document but also as a gateway to essential government services, including targeted subsidies.

The MADANI Government emphasizes principles of care and inclusivity, ensuring no eligible citizen is left out, Saifuddin added. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had earlier announced a reduction in the price of RON95 petrol to RM1.99 per litre from RM2.05, effective Sept 30, under the BUDI95 programme. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, stated that all Malaysians with valid driving licences are eligible for the subsidy. Data from the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and JPN indicates that more than 16 million citizens qualify.