THE use of fake MyKad identity cards threatens Malaysia’s national security by allowing individuals to impersonate citizens and infiltrate the country’s security and administrative systems without detection, according to the National Registration Department.
Its director-general, Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias, said individuals holding counterfeit MyKad could be exploited by terrorist groups, international criminal networks or human trafficking syndicates to conceal their true identities.
He said criminals who operate using false identities are particularly difficult to trace, complicating investigations, prosecutions and law enforcement efforts.
“Fake MyKad identity cards can be used by foreigners or criminals to impersonate Malaysian citizens, giving them the opportunity to enter and remain in the country undetected and to commit crimes that could threaten national security.
“The use of false identities can also allow criminals or unauthorised individuals to infiltrate the country’s administrative systems, access sensitive information and undermine the integrity of those systems,” he said in an exclusive interview at his office.
Badrul Hisham said the misuse of fake identity cards also has wider implications beyond security, as holders may unlawfully access government assistance and public services meant exclusively for citizens.
He said these could include government aid, subsidies, free treatment at public hospitals, free education and other benefits, thereby depriving eligible Malaysians of their rightful entitlements.
To address the threat, he said the National Registration Department, through its Investigation and Enforcement Division, is working closely with enforcement agencies such as the Royal Malaysia Police, the Immigration Department and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission to dismantle identity card forgery syndicates.
“The National Registration Department, through its Investigation and Enforcement Division, works together with other enforcement agencies such as the Royal Malaysia Police, the Immigration Department and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission to carry out operations to eradicate identity card forgery syndicates,” Harian Metro quoted him saying.
Badrul Hisham said firm legal action can be taken against individuals found guilty of using, possessing or keeping fake identity cards.
“Legal action can be taken against individuals found guilty of using, possessing or keeping fake identity cards. Upon conviction, they may be imprisoned for a term not exceeding three years, fined up to RM20,000, or both, in accordance with Regulation 25 of the National Registration Regulations 1990. The National Registration Department has never appointed any agent or representative to handle identity card registration matters,” he said.
He stressed that the department does not appoint any agents or representatives to handle identity card registration, warning the public to be vigilant against fraudulent offers and illegal services linked to MyKad applications. - January 9, 2025
