PUTRAJAYA: 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, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said today.
He said the upgrades mark a key milestone, noting that the Malaysian passport is now among the world’s most trusted travel documents.
“That is important because our passport is currently the third most trusted globally, measured by the number of countries Malaysian passport holders can enter without a visa. That is a key benchmark.
“With our passport’s trusted status, Malaysians can expect a new-look passport within six months,” he said at a press conference following the Home Ministry’s 2026 New Year Address.
Saifuddin Nasution said the new security features aim to boost the integrity of passports and MyKad, keeping national ID documents up to date.
He said the current passport already has proven security features, which has contributed to Malaysia’s ranking among the world’s top 10 most trusted passports.
“However, after a certain period, there is a need for the country to issue new security documents,” he said, adding that the renewal process involves technical specifications prepared and certified by the Immigration Department and the National Registration Department.
Saifuddin Nasution said the government would inform the public at least six months in advance to prevent a rush for new passports or MyKad.
“Malaysians should continue using their existing documents until they expire. Replacement will only be required when the time comes. Details on implementation dates, features and further announcements will be shared later,” he said.
Saifuddin Nasution stressed that passport and MyKad upgrades are necessary to bolster security and prevent forgery.
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