Malaysia is getting a fresh look for its passport and national ID (MyKad), with redesigned versions expected to roll out within the next six months.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail shared the update with reporters following the Home Ministry’s 2026 Ministerial Address last Thursday (Jan. 8, 2026). According to him, the new passport and MyKad will come with enhanced security features, boosting both their reliability and overall integrity. The initiative also coincides with the Home Ministry’s strategic direction for 2026 and is one of the Visit Malaysia Year initiatives that aims to strengthen border control and immigration measures nationwide.
With Malaysian passports ranked the third most trusted in the world for visa-free travel, the Home Minister emphasized that renewing them is crucial to maintaining the country's international standing.
“These milestones are important as our current passport ranks third in terms of trust, allowing Malaysian passport holders to travel with minimal visa requirements. Yesterday, I was briefed by the Immigration director general, together with the chief secretary, on the credibility of our passport. We aim to have a new-look passport for Malaysians within six months,” he said.
The new-look passports and enhanced identity cards are expected to be implemented at the end of the second quarter or the start of the third quarter this year. According to Malay Mail, the minister assured that existing passports and MyKad will continue to remain valid until their expiry.
“Continue using your current documents until they reach their expiry. Replacements will only be necessary at that time. Details on the implementation schedule, updated features, and additional announcements will be provided in due course,” he said.
He also mentioned that there’s no need for the public to rush to the offices to apply, as the public will be informed about six months in advance.
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