Kuala lumpur: With a single card, individuals can confirm their Malaysian citizenship and seamlessly handle daily tasks such as paying tolls, using public transport, and buying essentials.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MyKad, or the Government Multipurpose Identity Card, was introduced in 2001 as part of the Multimedia Super Corridor initiative. Its objective is to modernize the national identity system and integrate multiple applications into a single card. Despite its limited range of accessible services, users describe MyKad as efficient and convenient. Trader Roslina Daud appreciates not having to carry multiple cards, using MyKad as a Touch 'n Go payment method for tolls and parking fees. Similarly, private sector worker Maisara Abdul finds the My50 pass integrated with MyKad convenient for public transport.
The National Registration Department (JPN) Director-General, Badrul Hisham Alias, highlighted MyKad's evolution, with four versions introduced since 2001. The latest version, launched in 2012, incorporates enhanced security features such as a 'ghost image' to improve security. Badrul Hisham emphasized the importance of MyKad's chip, which contains built-in security features that are tightly controlled by JPN-approved systems.
MyKad's role extends beyond a physical identification card. It is crucial in the distribution of financial aid and subsidies, such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA). However, Badrul Hisham clarified that no money is credited to the card itself; instead, recipients' data is accessed through the store's system during transactions.
Despite its potential, MyKad's role as a multi-purpose platform has not been fully realized. Interest from government agencies in using MyKad as a core service delivery platform has diminished over the years. Nevertheless, JPN is committed to ensuring MyKad remains a robust and relevant identity document aligned with technological progress and public needs.
The potential of blockchain technology to enhance MyKad's security and transparency is being explored. Ts Dr Nor Alina Ismail from Universiti Malaysia Kelantan noted that blockchain could improve data integrity and provide secure identity verification, reducing the risk of breaches and data loss. However, implementing a blockchain-based system requires significant government investment in technology, legal frameworks, and digital infrastructure.
As Malaysia anticipates MyKad evolving into a fully digital identity system within the next 5-10 years, the transition will depend on the readiness of digital infrastructure, public technological literacy, and data security assurance. For now, a hybrid approach, where MyKad exists in both physical and digital forms, may be adopted before transitioning to a blockchain-based digital identity.