PUTRAJAYA, Sept 23 — The National Registration Department (JPN) is prepared to extend its counter operating hours for MyKad chip replacement if necessary, in line with the implementation of the BUDI Madani RON95 (BUDI95) programme.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said this is to ensure the replacement process runs smoothly and to minimise issues when the programme takes effect on Tuesday (September 30).
“There is no limit (on queue numbers for MyKad replacement). I have informed JPN staff that if more people come due to the announcement of BUDI95, operating hours may be extended if required.
“In fact, extending operating hours has always been part of JPN’s practice,” he told the press after inspecting the first day of the free MyKad chip replacement exercise today.
Saifuddin added that so far, MyKad replacement applications due to faulty chips average about 40,000 a month, compared to 30,000 previously.
He urged the public to utilise the period announced, from today until October 7, to ensure their MyKad chip is functional.
“Those who replace their faulty MyKad within this period will not be charged any fees. Normally, a RM10 fee will be imposed.
“Replacement is necessary as the implementation of BUDI95 is less than a week away,” Saifuddin said.
On today’s inspection, the minister said he is satisfied with the smooth process at JPN’s headquarters.
“Within 30 minutes, I managed to interact with people from Putrajaya, Semenyih, Kajang, Salak Tinggi, Bandar Putera, and Subang.
“Many chose to come here as services can be completed within a day. This shows the efficiency of JPN headquarters in expediting MyKad replacement,” he said.
Meanwhile, retiree Cairul Nadzim Mohd Yusof, 51, from Cyberjaya, said he visited JPN today to replace his MyKad and update his address.
“So far, the waiting time is acceptable, but I hope it can be further improved. For me, the service now is better than before,” he said.
Another applicant, Mohd Ibnur Farik Md Nordin, said he came from Segamat, Johor, to replace his faulty MyKad.
“I found out my chip was damaged when I tried to redeem the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) aid. With the fuel subsidy for RON95 requiring MyKad, I wanted to settle this quickly for future convenience,” he said.
Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the price of RON95 petrol would be reduced to RM1.99 per litre from RM2.05 per litre, effective September 30, under the BUDI95 targeted subsidy programme. All Malaysians with a valid driving licence are eligible for the subsidy.
