PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA Oct 19, 2025 – The National Registration Department (JPN) has pledged to ramp up technical safeguards and data accuracy for the MyKad system following Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail’s announcement of an investigation into claims of identity card misuse in redeeming Rahmah Basic Contribution (SARA) aid.
In an immediate media release, JPN emphasized its commitment to fortifying MyKad’s security framework to protect user identities and ensure precise data delivery in government-targeted subsidy programs. As the key provider of citizenship data to the Ministry of Finance (MOF) for SARA and BUDI95 initiatives, the department stressed that all supplied information is official, verified, and multi-layered through internal security protocols.
“However, JPN takes these complaints of MyKad misuse during aid redemptions very seriously,” the statement noted. The agency is collaborating closely with MOF to refine technical elements of recipient identity verification.
In swift action, JPN and MOF have greenlit two key enhancements:
1. Enhanced Data Synchronization : Regular matching and updates of MyKad details, including the latest chip versions, will now occur at increased frequencies between the two entities. This aims to keep recipient information current and accurate while curbing exploitation of lost, damaged, or replaced cards.
2. Police Reporting Protocol for Misuse : Cardholders affected by misuse must lodge a police report promptly. This will facilitate deeper probes by MOF and JPN, with any remaining aid balances refunded to legitimate recipients.
JPN further assured that ongoing system upgrades prioritize data integrity and MyKad user protection to prevent recurrence of such technical glitches in upcoming subsidy rollouts. “The department remains steadfast in backing the Madani Government’s policies to deliver subsidies and aid securely, transparently, and with integrity to those truly deserving,” it added.
The probe stems from public reports highlighting potential fraud in SARA distributions, underscoring broader efforts to safeguard national aid programs. JPN, under the Home Ministry, handles vital registrations like births, deaths, adoptions, marriages, and divorces, while determining citizenship and issuing identity documents.
