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Every Malaysian above the age of 12 is required to have a MyKad.
But after carrying it for so many years, do you really know all its features?
First introduced in 2001, the Malaysian identification card (IC) has undergone four versions, with the latest released in 2012.
In recent weeks, several Urban Transformation Centres (UTC) have been crowded with Malaysians rushing to replace their damaged ICs, following the rollout of the RM100 Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) grocery credit for all citizens aged 18 and above.
The National Registration Department (JPN) had earlier reminded Malaysians to replace their ICs if they are damaged or more than 10 years old.
Last month, JPN director-general Badrul Hisham Alias revealed that a new version of the MyKad is in development, with enhanced security features and expanded functions.
Here are 11 things you should know about our IC:
1. Other than your identity information, it also holds your medical records
Accrording to the MyGovernment website, the MyKad chip can store essential medical information, such as your blood type, organ implant status, chronic diseases, vaccination history, and next-of-kin details.
This data can be entered at hospitals and clinics participating in the Aplikasi Perdana Telekesihatan project, including Putrajaya Hospital and Serdang Hospital.
This capability is a step toward a more integrated public health system, allowing quicker access to crucial patient data in emergencies.
Your MyKad can also be used to access public hospital services through identity verification.
2. It can double as your driving licence
The MyKad chip can also hold your driving license information, according to a Bernama report last month.
3. A backup e-wallet
Your MyKad has a built-in Touch 'n Go (TNG) chip.
Accrording to the MyGovernment website, it can serve as a convenient e-wallet for paying tolls, parking, and public transport fares.
It's a handy backup if you don't want to carry a separate TNG card.
4. It's your ticket to the city: the My50 Travel Pass
For just RM50, Malaysians can activate the My50 pass on their MyKad, providing 30 days of unlimited travel on all Prasarana-operated services in the Klang Valley.
This includes the LRT, MRT, Monorail, BRT, and bus services, making your daily commute significantly cheaper and easier.
5. It's a lifeline for financial aid
For eligible citizens, the MyKad serves as a direct link to government assistance programmes like SARA and Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR).
The funds are not stored on the card but are linked to your ID number in a central database.
To use your allocated aid, simply insert your MyKad into a dedicated card reader at participating stores. This process does not involve the TNG component of the card.
6. It's your key to fuel subsidies
Starting 30 September, the government will use the MyKad to implement targeted fuel subsidies under the BUDI95 programme.
When you purchase petrol, your MyKad will be scanned to verify eligibility through a central database that cross-references information from various government agencies, ensuring the subsidy goes to those who truly need it.
However, there are also alternative ways to access the subsidies without using the MyKad for every transaction. Learn about it here.
7. It provides secure verification at banks
Banks use your MyKad data as part of the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, a crucial step in preventing fraud and ensuring secure transactions.
Other agencies, such as the Immigration Department, Tabung Haji, and the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), can also access your MyKad data to verify your identity when providing their services.
Fun fact: While these authorised agencies can access your information, they cannot alter it.
8. Small chip, big power
The current MyKad chip has a memory of 84KB. While it is small, it is enough to hold all the necessary information for its various functions.
The new MyKad in development is expected to have a significantly larger capacity of 124KB or 128KB, paving the way for more advanced features.
9. It's a step towards a "whole of government" approach
The MyKad is a key part of the government's "whole of government" approach, which aims to create an integrated system for data sharing among different agencies.
Managed by JPN, MyKad information is securely linked to other government databases such as the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) and the new Central Database Hub (PADU).
This integration allows for more efficient delivery of public services and ensures that subsidies and aid are channelled to the right people.
10. It's nearly impossible to clone
The MyKad is equipped with multiple security layers to prevent forgery.
These include a laser-engraved "ghost image" and a chip that can only be read by JPN-approved devices, protecting your data from unauthorised access.
11. It's a tool for democracy
When election day comes, the MyKad serves as your official identity document at polling stations.
It's a key safeguard in ensuring a secure and transparent electoral process.
