“When the document is brought to JPN, we know whether it is authentic or not,” said Hamzah during a press conference that was held earlier today. The minister also assured that existing birth certificates can still be used for identification and do not need to be changed. Meanwhile, children who are born in the new year will receive the new version of the document. Aside from the aforementioned watermark, the updated birth certificates are also said to feature a new design, as well as new paper and ink material for security printing. Additionally, Hamzah added that a total of 38 documents under the department, including birth certificates and marriage registers, will have enhanced s security features starting next year in order to maintain their security aspects. However, he did not elaborate further regarding this, or specify what other documents are included in the list. On a related note, the minister also revealed during the press conference that JPN officers will be mobilised to flood-affected areas through the Menyemai Kasih Rakyat (Mekar) program in order to help victims who have lost their identity documents from the disaster. Mekar is an initiative organised by the department, offering service facilities such as registration of births, deaths and identity cards, as well as providing advisory services to those in need, especially to residents in rural areas. “JPN officers are ready to look after the interests of the people,” Hamzah said. The minister added that documents such as identity cards are important for the people to carry out their responsibilities, especially for the upcoming 5th General Election. (Source: Bernama)
