CYBERJAYA, MALAYSIA Feb 27, 2026 – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has registered new Mandatory Standards for prepaid SIM card registrations, introducing biometric verification, ownership limits and stricter safeguards to crack down on scams and fraudulent use of mobile numbers.
Announced in a media statement yesterday, the Commission Determination on the Mandatory Standards for the Registration of End-users of Prepaid Public Cellular Services was issued under sections 55 and 104(1)(b) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
The overhaul addresses long-standing weaknesses in the existing framework that have allowed SIM cards to be misused for online scams and identity-related offences.
“The issuance of the Mandatory Standards marks a decisive regulatory step in strengthening Malaysia’s prepaid SIM registration framework,” the statement said.
Key features include biometric authentication and MyDigital ID for self-registration, mandatory secure automated platforms to prevent fraudulent sign-ups, and tougher biometric passport verification for non-Malaysians.
MCMC stressed that the new rules strike a balance between robust security, easier user access and the protection of personal data.
Key consumer-centric measures:
– SIM ownership limits : Malaysian citizens, Permanent Residents and Temporary Residents are capped at five (5) prepaid SIM cards per individual per service provider. Non-Malaysians are limited to two (2) SIM cards per provider.
– Protection for children : Registration of prepaid SIMs for children below 12 years old is prohibited.
– Minors (12–17 years old).: Registration must be done by a parent or guardian, with their information and consent recorded.
– Faster notifications : End-users must be informed of their registration status within 12 hours.
– Tourist SIMs : Validity is restricted to a maximum of three (3) months, with automatic termination thereafter.
Service providers and their appointed dealers have been reminded to implement the standards fully and on time. Non-compliance may result in regulatory action.
Consumers are advised to register prepaid SIM cards only through licensed service providers and authorised dealers, and to avoid any unauthorised channels.
More information, including the full Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), is available on the MCMC website at www.mcmc.gov.my.
The new framework is expected to significantly reduce SIM-related fraud while keeping mobile services accessible for genuine users.
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