Don't risk it: Using a family member's MyKad for subsidised fuel is a criminal offence

Many Malaysians may not realise that borrowing a family member's MyKad to obtain subsidised RON95 fuel is not a grey area — it is a criminal offence. The National Registration Department (Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara, or JPN) has made this clear: the MyKad is a government-issued identity document that belongs exclusively to the individual named on it, and using it on behalf of another person, even a close relative, is considered misuse under Malaysian law.

As Malaysia tightens its targeted fuel subsidy programme, understanding what constitutes lawful use of the MyKad at petrol stations is more important than ever.

What the law actually says

Under the National Registration Regulations 1990, a MyKad is a personal identity document. It is not transferable and must not be used by anyone other than the registered owner. When a person hands over their MyKad to a family member for the purpose of claiming subsidised fuel, both the person lending the card and the person using it may be exposed to legal liability.

The misuse of a MyKad can be prosecuted under Section 25 of the National Registration Act 1959, which makes it an offence to possess or use another person's identity card. Penalties can include fines and imprisonment. Separately, obtaining a government subsidy through deceptive means can also attract charges under Malaysia's fraud-related statutes.

Why this matters now: the targeted subsidy rollout

The Malaysian government has been progressively rolling out a targeted fuel subsidy system for RON95 petrol, moving away from a blanket subsidy that benefited all vehicle owners regardless of income. Under the new framework, only eligible Malaysians — typically those who own a vehicle registered in their name and fall within a certain income band — qualify for the subsidised price at the pump.

Petrol stations verify subsidy eligibility through a MyKad scan or QR code at the point of sale. This system is designed to match the fuel purchase to the individual's registered eligibility. When someone uses another person's MyKad to trigger that subsidy, the system is being deliberately circumvented, and that constitutes fraud against a government programme.

Common misconceptions about sharing MyKad for fuel

A widespread but mistaken belief is that sharing a MyKad within the family is harmless, particularly in situations where a spouse, parent, or child is driving a car registered to another household member. However, the eligibility check is tied to the MyKad holder's individual profile, not the vehicle alone. If the car owner's MyKad is used by a different driver to claim the subsidy, the transaction is no longer an accurate representation of who is receiving the benefit.

Another misconception is that enforcement is minimal and the risk of being caught is low. With the expansion of digital verification systems at petrol stations and increasing data sharing between government agencies, the traceability of subsidy claims is significantly improving.

What eligible Malaysians should do instead

If you are the registered owner of a vehicle and are eligible for the RON95 subsidy, your MyKad is the authorised credential to use at the pump. You should always carry your own MyKad when refuelling and ensure that the person filling up the tank uses only their own registered credentials. If your household has multiple eligible drivers, each eligible individual should register independently through the appropriate government channels.

Staying informed through official sources — including the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) and JPN — is the most reliable way to ensure compliance as the subsidy system evolves.

FAQ

Is it illegal to let my spouse use my MyKad to get subsidised fuel? Yes. Even within a marriage, a MyKad is a personal identity document that cannot be used by anyone other than the registered owner. Using another person's MyKad — regardless of the relationship — to claim a government subsidy is an offence under Malaysian law.

What happens if I am caught using someone else's MyKad at a petrol station? You may face action under the National Registration Act 1959, which provides for fines and imprisonment. Additional charges related to subsidy fraud may also apply depending on the circumstances.

How does the petrol station verify subsidy eligibility? Petrol stations use a MyKad scanner or digital QR-based system linked to government databases. The scan verifies the cardholder's identity and checks whether they are registered as eligible for the RON95 subsidy.

Can I register my family members for the subsidy separately? Eligible individuals must register through the official government channels, such as the MySubsidi portal or the relevant KPDN platform. Each person's eligibility is assessed individually based on their income level and vehicle ownership.

What if I genuinely did not know this was illegal? Ignorance of the law is generally not accepted as a defence in Malaysian courts. It is advisable to consult the latest government guidelines and, if needed, seek legal advice if you have already engaged in this practice.

Stay informed and road-ready with Motorist Malaysia

Navigating Malaysia's evolving fuel subsidy policies, road tax requirements, and vehicle regulations can be overwhelming. That is where Motorist Malaysia comes in. As Malaysia's most trusted automotive platform, Motorist provides up-to-date news, vehicle insights, and practical guides to help you make smarter decisions on the road and at the pump. Whether you are checking your vehicle's subsidy eligibility, renewing your road tax, or staying on top of the latest automotive news in Malaysia, Motorist Malaysia is the resource you can rely on. Visit motorist.my today and drive with confidence.

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