Malaysia Strengthens National ID Security with Advanced Biometric Verification

Malaysia is set to enhance its national identification system with advanced biometric security measures. Under the newly passed amendments to the National Registration Act 1959 (Act 78), the nation will begin recording 10 fingerprint images, along with the iris scans and facial scans for each citizen.

The Deputy Home Minister, Datuk Seri Dr. Shamsul Anuar Nasarah, has emphasized firmly on the need to update biometric collection and storage practices to align with modern security requirements. He highlighted that the initiative would not only strengthen identity verification processes but also protect the citizens’ confidential information.

The move accompanies the planned introduction of a new-structure identity card designed with upgraded security features. This card will replace the version currently in use since 2012. This is expected to greatly lower the chances of forgery and misuse.

From 2021 to August 2025, authorities made 795 arrests connected to identity crimes. This includes 326 people who were caught with fake or stolen ID cards. The strengthened biometric integration aims to close such loopholes and reinforce the national security infrastructure.

According to the Home Ministry and the National Registration Department (NRD), the transition to next-generation ID cards will reflect the latest technological standards and will protect Malaysians from identity fraud and document tampering.

How Other Nations Strengthen ID Verification with Biometrics

Globally, countries are reinforcing identity systems with biometrics. The Aadhaar of India incorporated fingerprints and iris scan, and the Philippines introduced PhilSys, which uses facial recognition. The EU Digital Identity Wallet will require livenes detection, and Nigeria is implementing improved e-ID systems. These measures reflect a global movement towards digital identity with biometrics.