The Malaysian government will soon require MyDigital ID for all prepaid SIM card registrations in a bid to enhance digital security and curb misuse, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced during a press conference.
The need for this change arose from discussions at the National Council of Digital Economy and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (MED4IR), where officials highlighted vulnerabilities in the current system. Notably, a single individual can register up to five SIM cards per telco, which with multiple providers, could lead to hundreds of SIM cards under one identity—creating opportunities for fraud and anonymity.
Fahmi emphasised that this move aims to close these loopholes and increase online safety, especially on social media platforms where SIM-based registration is commonly used.
Telecommunications companies will be directed to integrate MyDigital ID verification into their SIM registration process. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will issue detailed guidelines to oversee and ensure smooth implementation.
