Malaysia’s primary document for personal identification is the national identity card. This document is important to the individual as it is used in virtually all inter-personal transactions. All citizens are required to apply for and carry their identity card from the age of 12.

The latest version of national identity card is the MyKad, a microchip-based smartcard which securely stores various types of information for personal identification.

Malaysians are required to apply for their MyKads by the end of 2005. Applications may be made at offices of the National Registration Department. Those who have previously applied and are waiting for their MyKads to be ready may check the status of their applications here.