If you were born after 2003, there's a good chance your parents applied for one on your behalf when you were a child. However, the application process can be quite cumbersome, leaving many Malaysian parents wondering about the card's purpose and whether their child really needs one.

It's a valid question why should one need a MyKid when there's a birth certificate and, later on, an IC (Identity Card)? A Malaysian dad recently took to social media to express his frustration. He had applied for the MyKid while his wife was still in confinement after pregnancy, and now that his child is three years old, he has yet to receive the card due to a lack of available stock.

This left him confused about why he was required to apply for the MyKid in the first place. This situation has sparked a debate among Malaysians about the necessity of applying for the MyKid and its exact purpose. 

Let's clarify one thing having a MyKid for your child, especially while travelling, can be more convenient than carrying the original birth certificate, just in case it gets lost. Moreover, MyKid simplifies the process of registering for hospitals, schools and opening bank accounts.

However, the National Registration Department (JPN) has recently clarified that applying for the MyKid is not compulsory. The only essential documentation that Malaysian parents require for their child is the birth certificate. 

This has raised questions about the need for MyKid, with some suggesting that the resources used for manufacturing MyKid cards could be allocated to more important matters. Some have even proposed that the government should allow parents to apply for regular ICs for all children, as carrying a birth certificate everywhere can be cumbersome. Many parents have echoed these sentiments, especially those who have applied for years without receiving their MyKid cards.

There have also been rumours circulating that JPN has abolished MyKid applications. However, JPN has issued an official statement clarifying that there is no truth to these rumours. The delay in distributing MyKid cards to parents is due to global chip supply issues.

Parents or guardians are advised to use the birth certificate as a temporary document for various purposes. Both government and private agencies are reminded to accept the birth certificate as an official document.

Well, now that you know that it isn't compulsory to apply for a MyKid, would you still do so though?