The National Registration Department (NRD) will issue a new version of birth certificates starting next year that will contain some of the latest security features, said Caretaker Home Minister, Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin.
Hamzah said that the new security features include a ‘watermark’ on the birth certificate to avoid cases of document forgery.
“When the document is brought to the NRD, we will know whether it is authentic or not. Anyone who gives birth next year will get a new birth certificate,” he said.
Hamzah said that the existing birth certificate can still be used and does not need to be changed.
JPN in a statement in conjunction with the program informed that 38 security documents of the department, including birth certificates and marriage registers, will have enhanced security features starting next year to maintain the authenticity aspect.
According to JPN, among the new security features introduced are the design of documents, the paper used and the type of ink used for security printing.
Meanwhile, Hamzah said, NRD officers will be moved to flood-affected areas through the Menyesemai Kasih Rakyat (MEKAR) program to help victims who have lost their identity documents.
“JPN officials are getting ready, we are looking after the interests of the people… if there is no identity document there is no way to go vote,” he said and added that documents such as identity cards are important for the people to carry out their responsibilities in the 15th General Election (GE-15) later.
