Malaysia's new international passport features 94 security features and is now being rolled out across Sabah and Sarawak in phased implementation beginning July 28, 2026. Malaysia's Immigration Department has begun the phased rollout of the new Malaysian international passport in Sabah and Sarawak, marking the next stage of its nationwide implementation. The upgraded passport, equipped with 94 advanced security features, was initially launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on June 30, 2026, and is now being distributed to key passport-issuing offices across the two states. The Immigration Department announced that passport-issuing offices in Sabah and Sarawak will implement the rollout in two phases. Phase 6 commenced on July 28, covering offices in Bintulu, Sri Aman, Kuching, Miri, Sibu, Kota Kinabalu, Tawau and Keningau Urban Transformation Centres. Phase 7 will follow from August 3, covering offices in Kuching, Lawas, Limbang, Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Lahad Datu and Labuan Urban Transformation Centre. Enhanced Security Features The new Malaysian passport incorporates 94 security features designed to enhance document integrity and combat fraud. These advanced features represent a significant upgrade from previous passport generations, incorporating cutting-edge technology to protect traveler identity and document authenticity. The enhanced security measures reflect Malaysia's commitment to maintaining high international standards for travel documentation. Validity Options and Eligibility Malaysians aged 18 and above can opt for the new passport with validity options of either five or ten years. The Immigration Department advises the public to check participating offices and plan their applications accordingly. Existing passports remain valid up to six months before expiration, allowing citizens to transition to the new document on their own timeline. Phased National Implementation The rollout across Sabah and Sarawak follows earlier implementation phases in peninsular Malaysia. The Immigration Department's phased approach ensures orderly distribution while maintaining service capacity across all passport-issuing offices. Only the offices listed for each phase will begin issuing the new Malaysian passport on the specified dates, with the department urging applicants to verify their local office status before submitting applications. July 28, 2026
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