JPN clarifies: DG’s remarks linked to MyKad misuse probe in Kelantan, not to restrict subsidy access

MyKad. Photo source: TVS

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Apr 7: There are no restrictions on the public using their MyKad to enjoy subsidies under the Budi MADANI RON95 Programme (BUDI95)—so long as they comply with the prevailing rules and laws.

In a statement issued on Monday (Apr 6), the National Registration Department (JPN) clarified that an earlier statement by its director-general, Datuk Badrul Hisham Alias, was related to an investigation into the misuse of four MyKad by an individual other than their rightful owners, in line with JPN’s jurisdiction in enforcing laws related to identity documents.

“In the reported case, the investigation focuses on allegations of misuse of four MyKad by an individual in Kelantan. The statement by the director-general was not intended to restrict anyone from enjoying the subsidies provided by the government.

“JPN urges all parties to refer to official sources and understand the actual context of an issue before making any interpretations, so that public discourse can take place in a more prudent and fact-based manner,” JPN said.

It also said that in line with Regulation 25 of the National Registration Regulations 1990, the use or possession of a MyKad by anyone other than its rightful owner is an offence.

The department further urged the public to use their MyKad responsibly and not hand it over to others for any transactions, including those related to the purchase of subsidised fuel, to avoid legal implications and the risk of identity misuse.

“JPN will also remain committed to ensuring that MyKad functions properly as a valid and trusted instrument of identification, including in supporting the implementation of government initiatives such as BUDI95,” the department said.

On Apr 1, a man in Kelantan was arrested on suspicion of using four individuals’ MyKad to purchase subsidised fuel.

In a news report by Berita Harian, Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said the man was arrested while refuelling at a station in Tumpat.

Following this, the JPN is investigating cases of individuals using others’ identity cards to purchase subsidised fuel at petrol stations nationwide.

Badrul also further stressed that using another person’s MyKad—even a family member’s—to purchase subsidised fuel is an offence. — DayakDaily