Alternative passport to have same security features

What say you on the issue below?

BANGI: The Alternative International Malay-sian Passport will have the same security features as the current 32 and 64-page documents.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein gave his assurance that security would not be compromised although the new passport cost only RM100.

“People always think negatively. We have reduced the price to RM100, but that does not mean we reduce the quality of the passport.”

The Government is introducing the new two-year passport starting Oct 1 for infrequent travellers.

Currently, a 32-page passport costs RM300 and a 64-page document RM600. Both are valid for five years.

Hishammuddin said the new alternative passport would meet more practical needs.

“The security features are exactly the same as in the current passport,” he said.

He said Malaysia wanted to benchmark its passports on the international level and would work closely with all parties concerned which had voiced their security concerns.

Hishammuddin was speaking to reporters after launching the new uniform of the Civil Defence Department at the department’s training academy here yesterday.

The new uniform is blue, in accordance to the International Civil Defence Organisation (ICDO) uniform. Singapore, Ireland, United Kingdom and New Zealand’s civil defence personnel are also decked in blue uniforms.

Previously, the department’s personnel wore green uniforms.

“The change is symbolical as the first step to internationalising the department because it needs to be on par with the civil defence organisations of developed countries.”

He said the Cabinet had approved JPAM’s application to register as a permanent member of the organisation. A ceremony to receive the ICDO constitution will be held soon.