Travellers have welcomed Malaysia’s new 10-year passport validity option, saying it offers better convenience and value despite the higher RM350 fee, while also supporting stricter penalties for lost passports. – Bernama photo
KUCHING (June 7): Travellers here have largely welcomed the government’s move to introduce a 10-year Malaysian passport validity period, saying the longer lifespan offers greater convenience and better value despite the higher RM350 fee.
Frequent traveller Gideon Lau John, 23, described the initiative as a practical improvement that reduces the need for frequent renewals and offers greater ease when travelling abroad.
He said a longer validity period would also help travellers meet entry requirements in countries that require passports to be valid for at least six months.
“A 10-year passport is a great idea because you do not have to renew it as often. It saves trips to the immigration office, and since many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months, travellers will have fewer concerns about meeting those requirements,” he said.
Gideon Lau John
Gideon added that while the upfront cost is higher, the long-term value is better compared to the current five-year passport.
“Although the upfront cost is higher, it is actually cheaper over time. A five-year passport costs RM200, which works out to RM40 a year, while a 10-year passport costs RM350, or RM35 a year,” he said.
He also welcomed existing concessions, noting that persons with disabilities (PwD) continue to receive passports free of charge, while senior citizens aged 60 and above enjoy a reduced rate of RM175.
Another traveller, who wished to be known only as Darell, said the extended validity period would especially benefit frequent travellers and Malaysians living or studying abroad.
“The RM350 fee is worthwhile because it reduces the need to repeatedly go through the renewal process and provides greater convenience over a longer period,” he said.
Meanwhile, Garret Dawum, 37, described the move as a welcome initiative that saves time and reduces administrative hassle.
“I strongly welcome the 10-year validity period because it is much more convenient and means I do not have to go through the renewal process multiple times.
“At the same time, it helps save time and gives travellers greater flexibility when planning future trips,” he said.
Garret Dawum
Garret also said the RM350 fee was fair, considering the longer validity period, adding that it offers better long-term value compared to renewing a passport every five years.
On higher replacement fees for lost passports, all three respondents agreed that the measure would encourage better care of travel documents.
Gideon said stricter penalties would make people more cautious.
“Losing a passport will now have a significant financial impact. People will be more likely to use secure travel bags and store their passports in hotel safes,” he said.
Garret shared similar views, saying passports are important documents that should be handled responsibly.
“Higher penalties will encourage people to be more responsible. Losing or damaging a passport not only incurs substantial costs but can also disrupt travel plans and create unnecessary difficulties,” he said.
Under the revised fee structure, Malaysians aged 18 to 59 will be charged RM550 for a first replacement of a lost or damaged 10-year passport, RM850 for a second replacement, and RM1,350 for a third and subsequent replacement. Senior citizens aged 60 and above will pay RM375, RM675 and RM1,175 respectively.
The Fees (Passports and Visas) (Amendment) Order 2026 introduces the 10-year passport validity option priced at RM350 for Malaysians aged 18 to 59, while maintaining concessionary rates of RM175 for senior citizens and free passports for eligible PwDs.
The government has yet to announce the implementation date for the new 10-year passport issuance.
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