PM Anwar Unveils New Malaysian Passport With 94 Security Features

KUALA LUMPUR, June 30 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today unveiled the new version of the International Malaysian Passport, which comes equipped with 94 security features.

The launch took place at the Parliament Lobby, where Anwar received the new passport from Immigration director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban as part of the ceremonial handover.

Also present were Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and the Prime Minister's wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, who is the Bandar Tun Razak Member of Parliament.

The Home Ministry said in a statement that the introduction of the new passport design represents a significant transformation in enhancing the security of the nation's travel document, while also offering greater convenience and added value to the public.

Following the rollout, Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above will have the option to apply for the new passport starting July 1 this year, with a validity period of either five or ten years, depending on their preference.

The Home Ministry explained that the introduction of the 10-year passport is expected to reduce the frequency of renewals, saving time and streamlining both domestic and international travel arrangements.

"The fee for the International Malaysian Passport with a 10-year validity period is RM350, while the five-year validity remains at RM200. The introduction of the 10-year option effectively gives applicants a saving of RM50," the statement read.

The Ministry added that to ensure a smooth operational transition, the rollout of the new passport will be implemented in phases at 71 passport offices nationwide starting in July.

Members of the public are advised not to rush into replacing their current passports if the documents are still valid, as existing passports can continue to be used until they have six months or less remaining before expiry.

Earlier this year, Saifuddin Nasution announced that Malaysia would introduce new-look passports and MyKads to strengthen the country's data security.

The Malaysian passport currently ranks third in the 2025 Passport Index, making it one of the most powerful passports in the world.

-- BERNAMA