How will the National Registration Act 1959 be amended?

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The National Registration Act 1959 Will Be Amended to Enhance Biometric Data Powers and Regulatory Authority

The National Registration Act 1959 is set to undergo amendments to introduce a new definition for biometric data, bolster the Minister's authority to formulate regulations concerning its collection and use, and streamline the compounding of offences. These changes were initiated with the tabling of the National Registration (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the Dewan Rakyat.
Introduction of Biometric Data Definition

A key amendment will involve the revision of Section 2 of the National Registration Act 1959 to incorporate a new definition of biometric data. This will provide a clearer legal framework for the types of biological characteristics that can be collected and managed under the Act.
Expansion of Ministerial Regulatory Powers

The proposed amendments will significantly enhance the Minister's power to make regulations. Specifically, paragraph 6(2)(d) of Act 78 will be replaced to explicitly empower the Minister to set rules for the collection and recording of biometric data, including any conditions that may be imposed. Furthermore, paragraph 6(2)(e) will be amended to strengthen the Minister's ability to establish controls over the use of information contained within identity cards.
Streamlining Offence Compounding Procedures

The amendment bill also introduces a new Section 6A into the Act, which will grant the Minister the authority to prescribe offences that can be compounded, along with the associated methods and procedures. This power will be exercised with the approval of the public prosecutor. Concurrently, the director-general will be vested with the power to compound such offences, provided they have obtained the written consent of the public prosecutor. This section also includes the deletion of paragraph 6(2)(j), which previously allowed the Minister to set maximum charges for photographs, a provision rendered obsolete as no charges are currently imposed for this service.

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How will the National Registration Act 1959 be amended?

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