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 said the new documents mark a key milestone, with the Malaysian passport now among the world’s most trusted.
“That’s important because our passport is now the third most trusted, measured by the number of countries Malaysian passport holders can travel without a visa. That’s 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 in Putrajaya today, reported Bernama.
Saifuddin said the new security features aim to boost the integrity of passports and MyKad, keeping national ID documents up to date.
“We’ve enhanced these specific security features. The current passport (security features) is already proven, which is why our passport ranks among the world’s top ten.
“But after a certain period, there is a need for the country to issue new security documents,” he said, adding that the renewal process involves user specifications prepared and certified by the Immigration and National Registration Departments.
He said the government will notify the public about six months in advance to prevent a rush for new passports or MyKad.
“Use your existing documents until they expire. Replacement will only be required when the time comes. Implementation dates, features and further announcements will be shared later,” he said.
Saifuddin stressed that passport and MyKad upgrades are necessary to bolster security and prevent forgery.– January 8, 2026