Post by : Shakul

Malaysia has officially started rolling out its newly redesigned international passport featuring enhanced security features and a new 10-year validity option. The upgraded passport is being introduced in phases across 69 Immigration Department offices nationwide and seven overseas immigration offices.

The new passport, launched on June 30, gives Malaysians the option of choosing between a traditional five-year passport costing RM200 or a new 10-year passport priced at RM350. Authorities say there is no immediate need for citizens with valid passports to replace them before expiry.

Phased Rollout Across Malaysia

The rollout began on July 1 at selected Immigration offices, including Putrajaya, Jalan Duta, KLIA, Melaka, Seremban, Kelana Jaya, and several Urban Transformation Centre (UTC) branches.

Additional Immigration offices across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak will begin issuing the new passport throughout July and early August. Overseas Malaysian Immigration offices in Jeddah, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Singapore, Melbourne, London, and New York will also introduce the new passport in stages during August.

New Features and Application Process

The redesigned passport includes stronger anti-counterfeiting features and improved document security to meet international travel standards. Malaysians can continue using their existing passports until they expire, provided they remain valid for at least six months before international travel.

Applicants choosing the new 10-year passport must currently visit a passport issuance office in person, as online renewals are presently limited to five-year passports through the MyOnline Passport system.

What is new about Malaysia's passport?

Malaysia's latest passport introduces a 10-year validity option alongside the traditional five-year passport. It also features upgraded security technology designed to improve identity protection, prevent forgery, and comply with modern international travel requirements. The longer validity period offers better value for frequent travelers by reducing renewal frequency.

Where can Malaysians apply for the new passport?

The new passport is being introduced gradually across 69 Immigration Department offices throughout Malaysia, including headquarters, state offices, and UTC branches. Malaysian citizens living overseas will also be able to apply through selected Immigration attaché offices in countries including Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States as the rollout expands.

Can applicants renew online for the 10-year passport?

At present, online renewal services only support applications for the five-year passport. Malaysians who wish to obtain the new 10-year passport must visit an Immigration Department passport office personally until the online system is upgraded to support the longer-validity document.

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Higher Replacement Fees for Lost Passports

Officials reminded passport holders to keep their travel documents secure, especially those opting for the new 10-year passport. Replacement charges for lost passports are significantly higher than standard renewal fees, with penalties increasing for repeated losses.

The government says safeguarding passports will help travelers avoid additional costs while ensuring smoother international travel.

Malaysia's new international passport marks one of the country's most significant passport upgrades in recent years. The phased nationwide rollout introduces stronger security features, expanded validity options, and improved convenience for travelers while maintaining compliance with global aviation and border security standards.

The Immigration Department is implementing the rollout in stages to ensure a smooth transition across all passport issuance centres. The introduction of a 10-year passport aims to reduce renewal frequency, improve service efficiency, and provide greater flexibility for Malaysians travelling for work, education, business, and tourism.

Government Encourages Early Planning

Authorities advise Malaysians planning overseas travel to check their passport validity well in advance, as most countries require passports to remain valid for at least six months before entry. Travelers interested in the 10-year passport should monitor the rollout schedule to determine when the service becomes available at their nearest Immigration office.

The government says the phased implementation will continue until all designated offices in Malaysia and selected overseas missions are fully equipped to issue the upgraded passport.

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