Travel freedoms and document security are important considerations when travelling to Malaysia. Supporting that notion is the fact that Malaysia has one of the Top 3 strongest passport ratings in the world. Today, a New Computer Passport will help maintain (and possibly improve) the status of the top-rated Malaysian passport.
Stronger Passport for a Stronger Secure Future
Although every citizen should not rush to an immigration office and turn in their old passport for a new one, the Embassy of Malaysia reminds citizens that there is no need to immediately replace your passport with the newer model. Like all other renewals, your new passport will need to be applied for under the normal renewal time frame. Therefore, there will be no need for an emergency application.
Calm Down Before You Panic!
The calm approach to passport replacement will apply to MyKad, Malaysia’s National ID Card, as well as the New Computer Passport as both cards will receive a security upgrade.
What Is Being Upgraded?
The New Computer Passport will receive a complete redesign with improved security features. These features will ensure that the integrity of the passport remains intact while reducing the risks associated with identity fraud and forgery.
Home Affairs Minister Datuk Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has stated that Malaysia’s passport security is essential to earn the trust of other countries when it comes to gaining Visa and visa free access while travelling to many destinations around the world.
Why is this Important Globally?
At this moment, Malaysia is currently in third place in terms of access to VISA FREE travel around the world. This means that Malaysia’s passport is among the most highly regarded travel documents in the world.
Maintaining the rank that Malaysia currently has, should not only benefit travellers but it will create a global feeling of confidence within the international community regarding Malaysian passports and their strong security features.
MyKad Will Also Get Upgraded Technology
Not only will the passport receive an upgrade on its security features but so too will the MyKad, Malaysia’s electronic identity card. For anyone that is not familiar with MyKad, this is much more than just an ID. It contains all of a person’s identifying information (such as the name, date of birth, address, and photo) on a plastic card with an embedded electronic chip. It is also used as a means of transportation, for electronic payments, and includes high-security features that allow individuals to prove their identity.
The Government of Malaysia has indicated that MyKad is a secure document, therefore the need for MyKad to continue to develop with new technologies, as well as remain ahead of any attempts at counterfeiting, has become apparent as time goes on.
Now, Malaysia is in a position to announce a brand new passport design that will go along with a moresecure MyKad version. The Government’s announcement comes from the Ministry of Home Affairs and indicates that this is part of a long-term plan rather than a quick change.
Malaysia is taking the long-term view by not forcing people to get a new MyKad at once but rather gradually transitioning, which would provide less special stress for people along with a smoother implementation. Additionally, this will also add to the countries document fraud prevention as well as the countries global credibility in travel.
In summary, it is clear that Malaysia is in the long-term game of keeping the travel process easier, the security of documents more secure, and maintaining a high level of trust. For travelers from Malaysia, this is excellent news!
