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Government Will Not Take Over Datasonic, NSC Confirms

Malaysia's National Security Council has clarified that the government has no plans to assume control of Datasonic, the company responsible for producing passports and MyKad identity cards. The statement aims to reassure the public about the continuity of identity services.

LSN Malaysia · 22 August 2026

Government Will Not Take Over Datasonic, NSC Confirms

The National Security Council has moved to dispel speculation about a potential government takeover of Datasonic Group, the private firm contracted to supply and manage Malaysia's passport and MyKad production systems.

In a statement addressing concerns about the nation's critical identity infrastructure, the council reiterated its commitment to maintaining robust oversight of identity services while preserving the existing contractual arrangements with the service provider.

The council emphasised that current safeguards and regulatory frameworks remain in place to ensure that identity services continue to meet the highest standards of security and public trust. Officials stressed that the government's role is to supervise and monitor operations rather than directly administer them.

The clarification comes amid broader discussions in the region about the importance of securing sensitive identity systems and ensuring continuity in essential services that millions of Malaysian citizens depend upon for travel, banking, and official transactions.

Authorities have indicated that they will continue to work closely with Datasonic to uphold service standards and implement necessary security enhancements as needed.