KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 10, 2026 — The National Registration Department (JPN) has denied claims that MyKid and birth certificates can be “bought” to enable foreigners to obtain MyKad.
JPN explained that first-time MyKad applications at age 12 are not approved based solely on those two documents.
Instead, each application goes through checks of existing JPN records, including the applicant’s information, birth records, parents and recorded lineage.
Applicants must also appear together with a parent for identity and lineage verification, while facial matching is also taken into account.
According to JPN, if there is a mismatch of information or doubt over the applicant’s identity, the application will be referred to the Enforcement Division for further investigation.
Certain cases may also be brought to the Late Registration Committee Panel, and DNA tests can be conducted if necessary.
JPN urged parties with information or evidence regarding claims of the sale and misuse of citizenship identity to come forward for investigation.
JPN stressed it will not compromise on any misuse of identity or violation of the law, and will continue to strengthen existing SOPs and control mechanisms.
Source: JPN

