JPN probes rent-a-MyKad scheme after 36 Pasir Gudang arrests
JPN is probing a scheme where Malaysians rent their MyKad to foreign workers for as little as RM100, after 36 arrests in Pasir Gudang, Johor.
What happened1/4 36 workers arrested in Pasir Gudang
The National Registration Department (JPN) is investigating whether Malaysians rented out their MyKad to foreign workers, following the arrest of 36 factory workers in Pasir Gudang, Johor.
Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the arrests came under Ops Jejak 1.0, a joint operation with the Immigration Department and the Human Resources Ministry.
The probe looks into whether original cardholders handed their genuine MyKad to foreigners for employment purposes.
The real numbers2/4 JPN enforcement record, 2022 to September 2026
4,174enforcement operations (2022–Sept 2026)1,868arrests for identity document offences577prosecutions under Reg 25(1)(e), 2020–Sept 2026Of the 577 prosecutions, 449 involved fake identity cards and 128 involved using another person's card.
enforcement operations (2022–Sept 2026) 4,174 01/02JPN enforcement record, 2022 to September 2026 enforcement operations (2022–Sept 2026)
How it affects your wallet3/4 RM100 for your name. The fine can go up to RM20,000.
GPS-Batang Lupar Mohamad Shafizan Kepli said some Malaysians rented their MyKad to workers from Indonesia and the Philippines for as little as RM100.
The MyKad is the key to bank accounts, personal loans and SIM registrations. If someone uses your card to borrow money or register a company, the debt lands on your name, and you could face investigation and prosecution.
Under the National Registration Regulations 1990, those found guilty face up to three years in jail, a fine of up to RM20,000, or both.
Why it matters4/4 The law behind the probe
Regulation 25(1)(e) of the National Registration Regulations 1990 covers possessing or using a fake MyKad, or using another person's card.
Regulation 25(1)(n) applies if you fail to produce your MyKad during an inspection and the elements of the offence are met.
Shamsul Anuar said the new-generation MyKad carries 53 security features against 23 on the current card, including an enforcement QR code and a chip with stronger encryption. Mohamad Shafizan Kepli (GPS-Batang Lupar) noted that better card design alone will not stop cases where a Malaysian willingly hands over a genuine card.
- 02/02
JPN enforcement record, 2022 to September 2026 ✓arrests for identity document offences 1,868 arrests for identity document offences
Questions people ask
Can I be charged if I lent my MyKad to a friend?
Yes. Regulation 25(1)(e) covers using another person's identity card. The penalty is up to three years' jail and/or a RM20,000 fine, regardless of whether the other person was a friend or a foreign worker.
Does the new MyKad fix this problem?
The new card has 53 security features and an enforcement QR code, but Mohamad Shafizan Kepli said it will not stop cases where a Malaysian willingly hands over a genuine card.
Source: The Star
Keep reading
Gmail Job Offer Red Flag: How to Spot Fake Oil & Gas HR Emails
Focus Malaysia says real oil and gas companies don't use Gmail for job offers. Here's how to spot a fake HR email and what to do if money has already gone.
Kementerian Kewangan says viral QR fee claim for 1 Nov 2026 is false
Kementerian Kewangan says a viral poster claiming QR payments will charge from 1 November 2026 is false. The ministry asks Malaysians not to believe or share it.
Fraud and Drugs Hit Record Levels in 2025 Malaysia Crime Stats: What to Do in the First Minutes
The 2025 crime statistics report puts fraud and drugs at the highest recorded level. If money leaves your account, call 997 and your bank immediately.