MALAYSIA STRENGTHENS CYBER DEFENCE, TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANIES BEGIN MYDIGITAL ID INTEGRATION

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 30 (Bernama) -- Beginning tomorrow, Malaysians will benefit from significantly stronger digital security following the integration of the MyDigital ID identity verification technology by all telecommunications companies into their respective mobile applications.

In a statement today, MyDigital ID confirmed that this national initiative aims to protect users from scam calls, identity spoofing and fraud, which use unverified or misused SIM numbers.

This initiative, which is supported by the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) and coordinated by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), ensures that every mobile phone number is matched to a valid and trusted identity.

bootstrap slideshow

It covers three key components: the verification of existing prepaid numbers (whitelisting), the registration of new SIM cards and logging into teleco apps via MyDigital ID.

NACSA chief executive, Ir. Dr. Megat Zuhairy Megat Tajuddin said the implementation of each component may differ between service providers, but the goal remains the same: to ensure criminals can no longer exploit unverified SIM cards for illegal activities.

-- MORE

MyDigital-TELCO 2 PUTRAJAYA 

"MyDigital ID plays a critical role because its identity verification process refers directly to official government records supervised by the National Registration Department (NRD).

"This multi-stakeholder initiative also strengthens the implementation of the Malaysian Cyber Security Strategy Plan 2025-2030, led by NACSA.

“This ensures the nation's cyber ecosystem remains secure and resilient against current and future threats," he said. 

He also placed on record his appreciation to the MCMC for its pivotal role in coordinating the rollout of this national initiative with all telecommunications companies.

Meanwhile, MyDigital ID chief executive officer Nik Hisham Nik Ibrahim said mobile phone numbers are often misused for criminal activities such as scams and identity fraud.

“Earlier this year, news reports showed that the number of scam calls in 2024 had reached 2.98 million, which is nearly double the 1.63 million recorded in 2023.

“By using a verified digital identity, we can reduce the risk of such crimes, bolster digital trust and enhance security, while also reducing leaks in the digital economy," he said.

Addressing the widespread public concern over privacy and data security, Nik Hisham further clarified that MyDigital ID does not store user data, track online activity, or collect new information. 

"In reality, MyDigital ID does not function that way," he emphasised.

He explained that MyDigital ID's sole role is to verify an individual's identity when they choose to log in to a service, which is only done with the user's full consent and control.

"Our principle is simple: your data belongs to you, always. With MyDigital ID, it is now more secure than ever before," he said.

Members of the public are advised to refer to their respective telecommunications service providers' websites for further information on how to use MyDigital ID.

MyDigital ID is a secure and trusted digital identity platform designed to strengthen and simplify online identity verification, without replacing the MyKad system.

It functions as a single sign-on for digital services, offering citizens greater security and accessibility when accessing online services and conducting transactions.

-- BERNAMA