Ong Kian Ming, a proponent of the national digital identification system, described JPJ’s move as “a really bad idea” because it compels users to adopt a system that has not been stress tested yet.

“It would be better to introduce an electronic version of our passport, which is accessible through MyDigital ID as a way to incentivise people to register and use MyDigital ID – a new product (with) new protocols,” he said in a series of posts on X.

The former Bangi MP also said the new login method does not take into account the existing problems many users, including himself, have faced when registering for the MyDigital ID through the mobile app.

He said there should be a comprehensive, all-of-government strategy involving various ministries and agencies, noting the lack of coordination in the rollout of MyDigital ID.

“What we have now is a hodge-podge approach where Padu (central database hub) and Budi registrations should have been done via MyDigital ID but for various reasons, had separate registration systems,” he said.

Starting Oct 10, citizens will be required to log into the MyJPJ app using MyDigital ID as part of Malaysia’s push for digitalisation and streamlined access to government services.

The announcement, however, has sparked mixed reactions among Malaysians, with some questioning why the identification system is compulsory when the app often freezes or lags.

While Ong acknowledged that JPJ, with the largest database of active users, would be a prime agency for promoting MyDigital ID, he said the new login approach was the wrong way to go about it.

He recommended that MyDigital ID should instead fall under the digital ministry to ensure clearer accountability and coordination.

The app is currently managed by Mimos Bhd, an agency under the science, technology and innovation ministry.

“In the meantime, don’t make it mandatory to use MyDigital ID as the only login option for the MyJPJ app,” he said.