Accra:A total of 202,829 new-generation MyKads have been issued nationwide since their introduction on September 17, up until October 11, according to National Registration Department (NRD) director-general Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the issuance figure has increased by 33,483 cards, or approximately 19.8 percent, from the 169,346 cards recorded as of October 6. The new MyKad features enhanced identity security with 53 security features, compared to the previous 23, aiming to strengthen document integrity and minimize forgery and identity misuse risks.

Badrul Hisham highlighted that the number of MyKad applications in September rose by 25 percent compared to August. The Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur recorded the highest issuance with 24,006 cards, followed by Johor, Sarawak, Selangor, and Sabah. Kelantan recorded 9,722 cards issued.

He emphasized that the NRD's focus is not on creating competition among states but on providing secure, efficient, and accessible services to the public. As of October 7, 69 out of 70 card issuance centres completed their Final Acceptance Test and began operations, with the remaining centre in Langkawi expected to commence operations on October 18.

The NRD is also implementing the MEKAR programme to assist with birth registrations and identity documents for those facing service access challenges. Badrul Hisham assured that existing MyKad holders do not need to rush to replace their cards as the old version remains valid for certain initiatives, provided the chip remains functional.

He urged service providers to upgrade their card reader systems to ensure seamless electronic identity verification processes with the new MyKad. This upgrade involves financial investment and a commitment to enhance system capabilities for reading and verifying identity card information.