A 36-year-old real estate agent has confessed to filing a false robbery report in an attempt to avoid paying the replacement fee for his lost MyKad.
The man initially claimed he was robbed at knifepoint by two men on a motorcycle in Kampung Bersatu, Puchong. According to his report, the alleged robbers took RM70 worth of valuables. However, investigations by the police uncovered that no such robbery occurred.
Photo via Free Malaysia Today
Subang Jaya district police chief ACP Wan Azlan Wan Mamat confirmed that the man fabricated the story. "He was found to have made a false police report because he had lost his identity card and refused to pay the replacement fee," ACP Wan Azlan stated in a press release on 12 November.
The man is now being investigated under Section 182 of the Penal Code for making a false report and Sections 395/397 for falsely alleging a robbery. If convicted, he could face up to six months in prison, a fine of RM2,000, or both.
Why Does MyKad Matters?
The MyKad is more than just an identity document—it is a critical form of identification used for various legal, financial, and personal matters. Losing it poses significant risks, including the potential for identity theft or misuse in criminal activities. To mitigate these risks, individuals are required to file a police report immediately if their MyKad is lost.
The process not only helps protect the individual but also ensures that law enforcement can monitor and prevent the fraudulent use of personal information.
Replacement Fees: A Necessary Safeguard
Obtaining a replacement for a lost MyKad involves an application and processing fee. These fees are structured to encourage responsible handling of the card and to offset administrative costs.
-
Application Fee: RM10
-
Processing Fee:
-
RM100 for the first replacement
-
RM300 for the second replacement
-
RM1,000 for the third and subsequent replacements
If the MyKad was stolen, the processing fee is typically waived, provided the police report confirms the theft.
While the fees may seem steep, they serve as a deterrent against repeated negligence and as a safeguard for the integrity of the MyKad system.
Consequences of Misuse
This case serves as a reminder that fabricating stories to avoid fees is not only unethical but also a criminal offence. Filing a false report diverts police resources from genuine cases, impacting the community’s safety and trust in law enforcement.
The incident highlights the importance of responsibly managing one’s MyKad and following proper procedures in the event of its loss.
