Malaysia will roll out stronger nationwide digital security measures starting tomorrow as all telecommunications companies begin integrating MyDigital ID identity verification into their mobile applications.
MyDigital ID said in a statement that the initiative is designed to curb scam calls, identity spoofing and fraud, particularly cases involving unverified or misused SIM cards. Supported by the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) and coordinated by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the effort ensures every mobile number is tied to a verified identity.
The integration covers three main components:
• verification of existing prepaid numbers (whitelisting)
• registration of new SIM cards
• logging into telco apps via MyDigital ID
NACSA chief executive Ir Dr Megat Zuhairy Megat Tajuddin said implementation may vary across service providers, but the objective remains to prevent criminals from exploiting unverified SIM cards for illicit purposes.
“MyDigital ID plays a critical role because its identity verification process refers directly to official government records supervised by the National Registration Department (NRD). This multi-stakeholder initiative also strengthens the implementation of the Malaysian Cyber Security Strategy Plan 2025-2030, led by NACSA. This ensures the nation’s cyber ecosystem remains secure and resilient against current and future threats,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to the MCMC for coordinating the national rollout with telecommunications companies.
MyDigital ID chief executive officer Nik Hisham Nik Ibrahim said mobile numbers continue to be misused in scams and identity fraud.
“Earlier this year, news reports showed that the number of scam calls in 2024 had reached 2.98 million, which is nearly double the 1.63 million recorded in 2023. By using a verified digital identity, we can reduce the risk of such crimes, bolster digital trust and enhance security, while also reducing leaks in the digital economy,” he said.
Addressing concerns on privacy, he stressed that MyDigital ID does not collect or track user data.
“In reality, MyDigital ID does not function that way,” he said, adding that identity verification occurs only with full user consent.
“Our principle is simple: your data belongs to you, always. With MyDigital ID, it is now more secure than ever before,” he added.
The public is advised to refer to their respective telecommunications providers for detailed guidance on using MyDigital ID.
MyDigital ID serves as a secure digital identity platform for online verification and functions as a single sign-on system, complementing rather than replacing the MyKad.
