Malaysian Passport

Description

Malaysian Passport: Features and History

The Malaysian passport (Malay: Pasport Malaysia) is an official travel document issued by the Immigration Department of Malaysia to Malaysian citizens. This document facilitates international travel and serves as proof of Malaysian citizenship.

Key Features of the Malaysian Passport

1. Pioneering Biometric Technology:
   • Malaysia became the first country in the world to issue biometric passports in March 1998, leveraging technology developed by IRIS Corporation, a local company.
   • December 2002 saw the inclusion of thumbprint data to the biometric chip, further enhancing the document’s security features.
   • This same technology is also integrated into Malaysia’s national identity card, the MyKad.
2. Physical Characteristics:
   • Contains 50 pages for travel visas and endorsements.
   • The data/information page is printed in Malay and English, reflecting Malaysia’s multilingual heritage and global engagement.
3. Biometric and Digital Security:
   • The embedded chip stores crucial personal details, including:
     • Digitised photograph.
     • Full name and gender.
     • Date and place of birth.
     • Thumbprint data (added in 2002).
   • These features ensure compliance with international standards for travel security and identity verification.

Application Process for Malaysian Passports

To apply for or renew a Malaysian passport, applicants must provide the following details:

Required Information

• Surname
• Given Names
• Gender (M/F)
• Date of Birth
• Place of Birth (City and Country)

Optional Details

• Passport Number (for renewals)
• Date of Issue
• Issuing Authority
• Residential Address

Supporting Materials

• Passport Photo:
  • Digital format, high resolution.
  • White background.
  • Color image.
• Signature:
  • Digital format, black ink on a white background.

Significance of the Malaysian Passport

1. Global Recognition:
   • The Malaysian passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries, ranking it among the most powerful passports globally.
2. Security and Innovation:
   • The use of biometric data, including thumbprint technology, sets the Malaysian passport apart as a secure and forward-thinking travel document.
3. Cultural Representation:
   • The inclusion of Malay and English on the data page reflects Malaysia’s rich cultural and linguistic diversity.

Conclusion

The Malaysian passport is a testament to the country’s pioneering role in biometric security technology. It offers Malaysian citizens a secure, efficient, and widely recognized means of international travel while reflecting the nation’s identity and innovative spirit.

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