SHAH ALAM – Until recently, many Malaysians hardly gave a thought to whether their MyKad was functioning. But now, having a working card is more crucial than ever as it is required for the MySARA cash aid system and to enjoy BUDI95 subsidised RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre.
With millions set to benefit from this subsidy rollout, many rushed to the National Registration Department (JPN) to check or replace faulty chips in their MyKad.
If you’re worried about whether your MyKad will work at the pump or for cash aid redemption, here’s what you need to know:
1. Why you need to act fast
Under Budi Madani RON95 (BUDI95), which kicks in on Sept 30, all eligible Malaysians must verify their identity via MyKad when purchasing subsidised RON95 fuel.
A damaged chip could mean you’re denied the subsidy.
Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan stressed that MyKad is the key to various forms of assistance and without it, someone cannot access these benefits.
2. Free Replacement – But only until Oct 7
Normally, replacing a damaged MyKad chip costs RM10, but the government has waived this fee until Oct 7.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the government expects to spend about RM714,660 to cover the cost.
“We want to make sure MyKad functions properly so that identity verification at subsidised petrol pumps goes smoothly.”
3. Where you can replace your MyKad
You can head to any National Registration Department (JPN) office or counter nationwide to replace your faulty chip for free.
From big cities like Putrajaya, Johor Bahru and Penang to smaller towns, the service is available everywhere JPN operates. Some offices may even extend their hours if demand surges.
“I’ve already told JPN officers that if they need to extend hours, they should be ready to do so,” said Saifuddin.
4. How fast Is the process?
At JPN Putrajaya, long queues formed as early as 8am, but many reported quick service.
Cairul Nadzim Mohd Yusof, a 51-year-old retiree, told Sinar he came at 8am and by 9am, he was already waiting to collect his new MyKad.
Mohd Ibnur Fariq, 34, took advantage of visiting family in Putrajaya to get his chip replaced.
“My chip was detected as faulty when redeeming SARA aid. Since replacement is free, I did it right away.”
5. What if I don’t replace it?
Without a functioning MyKad, you risk:
- Being unable to redeem Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) or SARA aid.
- Losing eligibility for BUDI95 subsidised fuel, which comes with a cap of 300 litres per person per month.
- Facing potential identity verification issues for other government-linked benefits.
6. Tips before heading to JPN
- Go early in the morning to beat the queues.
- Bring your existing MyKad for inspection.
- If your card is still working fine, no replacement needed.
- Don’t wait until the last minute, avoid the rush.
With subsidies tied so closely to your MyKad, ensuring the chip works is now essential. The government is footing the bill for replacements until Oct 7, so Malaysians are urged to take advantage of this window.