Malaysia issues a chip-based identity card for children, including MyKid and MyKad. According to Regulation 3 of the National Registration Regulations 1990 (Amendment 2007), kids should register MyKad when turning 12 years old. In this blog article, we are going to talk about what MyKad is and how to apply for one for your child.
What Is MyKad?
MyKad, known as The Malaysian identity card, is a mandatory identification for Malaysian citizens aged 12 and above. It was launched by the National Registration Department of Malaysia in 2001. “My” refers to Malaysia while “Kad” comes from “Kad Akuan Diri” (Personal Identification Card) or “Kad Aplikasi Digital” (Digital Application Card). By combining photo identification and biometric data on one piece of small chips, this Malaysian Government Multipurpose Card (GMPC) can also serve as proof of Malaysian citizenship, driver’s license, ATM card, e-payment carrier, keys, smart key card, etc.
What Does A MyKad Look Like?
Much the same size as a credit card, MyKad is a plastic blue card carrying the basic information of the cardholder and issuing authority.
On the front side of the card, there is:
- name of the card, KAD PENGENALAN MALAYSIA (Malaysian identification card);
- Malaysia’s national flag;
- Laser-engraved and micro-printing MyKad number;
- Electronic chip;
- Full name of the cardholder;
- Address of the cardholder;
- Photograph of the cardholder;
- Laser-engraved hologram photo (smaller size);
- Religion (for Muslims);
- Anti-fake printing and marks on the background.
On the back of the card, you will see:
- An 80KB chip
- Multi-color UV printing
- Signature
- Issuing authority
What Can I Use MyKad for?
With essential personal information stored in the chip of the card, MyKad can be used as the following documents as long as the corresponding functions are activated.
- Identity document.
The identity can be checked through fingerprints and photographs in official and public transactions.
- Driving licence
It proves that an individual is capable and permitted to legally drive on Malaysian roads.
- Travel document
The cardholders can pass the unmanned gates by reading embedded fingerprints and travel to some neighboring countries of Malaysia, thus reducing the waiting time and accelerating customs clearance.
- Health document
The chip stores basic health information, such as blood type, chronic diseases, emergency contact, etc., which helps doctors to offer medical assistance in emergencies.
- e-Cash
It serves as an “electronic wallet” system for massive transactions at low value. The maximum amount usually does not exceed US$500.
- ATM integration
It can be used as a bank card to withdraw money from the automatic teller machine (ATM) of participating banks.
- Touch’n Go
It is an electronic purse application supporting contactless payment. Users can top up at the toll plazas, LRT stations, or ATMs with the Touch’n Go logo and pay quickly with MyKad for highways, public transportation, and parks.
- Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)
It is also known as a digital certificate, allowing an individual to complete electronic transactions through personal verification, digital signature, and authorization.
Who Is Eligible for MyKad Application?
All Malaysian citizens and permanent residents between 12 and 16 years old are qualified to apply for a MyKad. It has been replacing the old Malaysian identical systems since 2001. In Malaysia, newborns are issued a MyKid, a child’s identity card, at birth. It must be transformed into MyKad when the child turns 12. The MyKad must be renewed/replaced when the child becomes 18 as a new photograph is required to show his/her current appearance.
What Are the Requirements for MyKad Application?
To apply for MyKad for your child, you have to prepare the following document of you and your child.
- Proof of the child’s identity, such as original birth certificate, adoption certificate, citizenship certificate, or other citizenship form.
- Original passport of the child (required in the case of non-resident).
- Original identity card of the parent or legal guardian.
- Original statutory declaration letter and confirmation letter issued by JKM (Malaysian Social Welfare Department) to confirm guardianship (on the condition that the guardian is not the child’s parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, elder sister, or brother over 21 years old).
- Original passport of the parent or guardian (required in the case of non-resident).
- Original or certified copy of utility bill, tax assessment form, sale and purchase agreement, tenancy agreement, or other proof of address if the child has a different registered address from the parent or guardian.
How to Apply for MyKad Online & In-person
MyKad application must be submitted within 30 days after the child reaches 12 either at the National Registration Department (NRD) or online.
Apply for MyKad In Person
- Find the Nearest JPN-NRD Branch
The NRD, a department under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs, is in charge of civil registration, such as birth, death, adoption, and marriage. There are dozens of NRD branches all over the country. Please find the nearest one on JPN portal according to the state you live in.
- Visit the NRD Branch
You should go to the NRD office with your child and the required documents. It is suggested to contact the chosen office to check the opening hours and whether a prior appointment is needed.
After arriving, get a waiting number and an Application Form JPN.KP01 at the counter. Fill out the form honestly and do not miss any required fields.
When your number is called, go to the counter to submit the application. The officer will capture fingerprints of you and your child as well as a photograph of the child. After all these are finished, pay the application fees according to the officer’s instructions.
- Receive MyKad
The identity card will be ready in 5-7 working days. After receiving the notice of collection, return to the same branch of application and collect the MyKad. Please note that your child cannot collect the card alone.
Apply for MyKad Online
Applying for an identity card used to be lengthy and convenient. You might have to spend the whole day at the NDR Office to complete all steps. Now things are becoming easier as you can file the MyKad application online in advance. Here is a step-by-step instruction.
- Visit the 12-year-old’s ID Request Page and Click on the register link to create an account. If you already have an account, skip this step and continue.
- Provide the required information, including citizenship, ID number, name, email, state code, and phone number. Enter the verification code and click on the “Hantar” button to proceed.
- Receive a notification in your email and click on the link to activate your account. You have to set up a passport at this step.
- When seeing a page like this, you have successfully registered.
- Visit the Online MyKad Application Portal again and click on the “Log in” button with a password, Mi-TCK, or MyDigital ID.
- Read the terms and conditions. Check the box next to “Seya Setuju” (I Agree) at the end and click on the “Setuju” (Agree) button.
- Fill out the Online Application Form
You have to provide personal information and select the NDR branch that you want to collect MyKad. After submitting the form, click on the “OK” button in the pop-up window.
- Print out Summary
The information that has been entered is displayed on the screen. Review the summary and click on the “Cetak” (print) button to print it out which should be taken to the selected JPN branch.
- Visit the Selected NDR Office
You still need to proceed to the NDR branch to submit biometrics. The process is similar to the in-person application, but you don’t need to fill out the application form and wait for the office to review it on the spot
MyKad Application Fees
It is free of charge to get a MyKad for children under 12 years and 30 days old. However, an extra processing fee of RM10 will be charged when the child is older. Here is a detailed price list.
| Age | Processing Fees |
| 12 years and 30 days old – 13 years old | RM 10 |
| 13 years and 1 day old – 14 years old | RM 10 |
| 14 years and 1 day old – 15 years old | RM 10 |
| 15 years and 1 day old – 16 years old | RM 10 |
How to Check MyKad Application Status
The processing time for MyKad application takes about 5-7 business days. Some feel frustrated waiting aimlessly for the card. The good news is that the MyKad application status can be checked online through the steps below.
- Visit the JPN website (in Malay or English).
- Enter the ID number and the verification code.
- Click on the “Semak” or “Check” button.
- You will see whether your application is being processed or approved.
FAQ
⭐️ When Does MyKad Expire?
It is valid for 10 years upon the date of issuing.
⭐️ What happens if I miss the application deadline when my child turns 12?
You have to pay an extra RM10 for processing fees.
⭐️ Can foreigners get MyKad in Malaysia?
Yes, but MyKad for foreigners in Malaysia is only available for permanent residents.
⭐️ How to check my card serial number?
The MyKad serial number is needed when tying the card to Touch ‘n Go Wallet. It can be found on the top-up receipt, showing as MFG No.
Summary
After reading this passage, you must have been clear about what MyKad is. It can be obtained through in-person or online MyKad applications. The identity card is versatile in many cases. Therefore, if your child has attained 12 and is eligible, it is suggested to apply for it within 30 days for him/her, otherwise, processing fees will be charged for late registration.
Dolores Xiao