Kuala lumpur: Malaysia will introduce new-look passports and MyKad within six months as part of efforts to strengthen the security of the country's identity documents, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. He stated that the new documents mark a key milestone, with the Malaysian passport now among the world's most trusted.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Home Minister emphasized the importance of the Malaysian passport's global standing, highlighting that it is currently the third most trusted based on the number of countries Malaysian passport holders can visit without a visa. This status underscores the significance of the upcoming enhancements, which are expected to be rolled out within six months.

Saifuddin Nasution explained that the new security features are designed to enhance the integrity of both passports and MyKad, ensuring that national ID documents remain up to date. He noted that while the existing passport security features are proven, the renewal process is necessary to maintain a high standard of document security. This process will involve user specifications prepared and certified by the Immigration and National Registration Departments.

To prevent a rush for new documents, the government plans to notify the public about six months in advance. Citizens are advised to continue using their current documents until they expire, with replacements required only when the time comes. Further details regarding implementation dates and features will be communicated in due course.

Saifuddin Nasution underscored the necessity of the upgrades, highlighting their role in bolstering security and preventing forgery.