PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, Sept 22, 2025– Malaysians with damaged MyKad chips can now replace them for free at any National Registration Department (JPN) office or counter nationwide, starting tomorrow until October 7, as part of efforts to support the newly announced BUDI95 subsidy initiative.
The move, announced by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail today, aligns with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s unveiling of the BUDI95 program aimed at providing targeted assistance to citizens. The free replacement service is designed to ensure that technical issues with identification cards do not hinder access to government subsidies.
According to JPN records, there has been a sharp increase in MyKad replacement requests due to chip or card damage. From January to August 2025, the department received 294,715 such applications. The trend has accelerated in recent months: 32,819 in June, rising to 40,371 in July, and 45,411 in August. As of September 21, an additional 22,858 requests had been logged.
Based on the average of the last two months—around 43,000 units per month—the government estimates the two-week free replacement period will cost approximately RM714,660, including associated expenses. The Madani government has committed to fully covering these costs to prioritize inclusivity and smooth implementation of BUDI95.
“I emphasize that the Madani government is concerned about bearing this cost entirely during this period to ensure citizens’ access to this subsidy is not compromised by technical problems on their MyKad,” Saifuddin said in a statement. “Every eligible citizen should enjoy the benefits of BUDI95 without interruption.”
The minister urged Malaysians to maintain their MyKad in good condition, noting it serves not only as personal identification but also as a key to various government services, including the targeted BUDI95 subsidies.
The Madani administration reiterated its commitment to principles of care and inclusivity, ensuring no citizen is left behind in receiving promised benefits.
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