Including Non Romanised Names In Mykad Is An Excellent Move

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WHILE debating the National Registration (Amendment) Bill 2025 in Parliament on Aug 27, Tumpat MP Datuk Mumtaz Md Nawi proposed that the Jawi version of names on the MyKad be included as part of plans to launch a new identity card with biometric features.
She was reported to have said “Now is the best time to integrate the Jawi script into our national identity, both on the physical MyKad and in the MyDigital ID.”
She pointed out that the use of Jawi script would improve Malaysia’s standing among Arab nations using similar scripts.

She added that Malaysia will be more respected and embraced by Islamic nations, presenting itself with a unique and dignified identity, adding that the Jawi font is more limited, using its letters, making it harder to manipulate than Roman script.
Deputy home minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah did not respond to Mumtaz’s suggestion and said the proposed biometric data recording will involve images of 10 fingerprints, iris scans and facial scans, to enhance security features.
Mumtaz also pointed out that even Singapore allowed citizens to have their names spelled out in Jawi on their identification cards.
This is true as Singapore allows non-romanised names such as Chinese characters (traditional or simplified), and Jawi or Tamil scripts, to be included, provided the ethnic name is on the holder’s birth certificate.
The PAS lawmaker’s proposal would have enjoyed much greater support if she had included other ethnic names, as those left out could brush away reports with headings “Include Jawi script of names in MyKad, says PAS MP”, and “PAS lawmaker wants Jawi script as option for MyKad, official digital documents”.
Lest we forget, names are not just for identification, but also have meanings, particularly those that are not common and specially created by the parents or elders, such as Chinese names.
In any case, those who live or are guided by the names tend to live a more successful life.
YS Chan is master trainer for Mesra Malaysia and Travel and Tours Enhancement Course and an Asean Tourism Master Trainer. He is also a tourism and transport business consultant.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of  MMKtT.
- Focus Malaysia.

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