Kuala Lampur:The National Registration Department (NRD) has issued a total of 169,346 New Generation MyKads across the country between September 17 and October 6.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, NRD Director-General Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias reported that the highest number of issuances occurred in the Federal Territories with 20,592 cards, followed by Johor with 18,871, Sarawak with 15,777, Sabah with 13,711, and Selangor with 13,452.

The public response has been very encouraging due to the MyKad's upgrade from 23 to 53 high-tech security features, which are intended to curb identity forgery issues. To manage the increased demand for the New Generation MyKad, the NRD has expanded its card production centers from 60 to 70 nationwide. All centers are operational except for one in the Langkawi district, which is in the final preparation stages for operation.

In September, male applicants accounted for a higher percentage of applications at 57 percent compared to females. Despite the new upgrades, the NRD advises the public not to rush to replace their old MyKads if the chip is still functional.

The NRD has conducted 25 MEKAR programmes in Terengganu this year to assist the public, including persons with disabilities, Orang Asli, chronic patients, mental patients, and senior citizens, in obtaining their MyKads. Additionally, the Terengganu NRD has provided 1,314 advisory sessions to the community.

Datuk Badrul Hisham emphasized that the department's role extends beyond managing identity cards to safeguarding the people's identity and the nation's trust, aiming for a department that is not only efficient but also compassionate in its services.