By Thanesh Veeramutu
KUALA LUMPUR, 24 September 2025: The Malaysian government, through the National Registration Department (JPN), has announced a free MyKad chip replacement program for damaged cards from September 23 to October 7, 2025. This initiative is a proactive measure to ensure citizens can seamlessly access the Budi Madani RON95 (Budi95) targeted fuel subsidy, which begins on September 30.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that the government will fully absorb the estimated cost of RM714,660 for the two-week exercise. This is to prevent technical issues from hindering eligible citizens from receiving the Budi95 subsidy, which will allow them to purchase RON95 petrol at a subsidized price of RM1.99 per litre.
Data from the JPN reveals a steady increase in applications for damaged card replacements, with an average of 43,000 requests per month. The number of applications rose from 32,819 in June to 45,411 in August of this year. The government’s decision to waive the usual RM10 replacement fee is aimed at encouraging individuals with faulty cards to get them replaced promptly.
MyKad is a crucial gateway to government services and subsidies, and a functional chip is required for verification at petrol stations. The program applies to all Malaysians with a valid car or motorcycle driving license, who will be entitled to purchase up to 300 litres of subsidized RON95 petrol per month.
The free replacement service can be obtained at any JPN counter nationwide.
