Malaysian citizens and permanent residents are required by law to carry their ID cards with them at all times. Fines of up to RM20,000 or a prison sentence of up to three years can be imposed on those who can’t produce their ID when asked. Over the past few years, Malaysia has been replacing old ID cards with a new smart card, called the MyKad. Foreigners are not issued with MyKads and instead are supposed to carry their passport with them at all times. Officially photocopies are not acceptable, but many foreigners prefer not to carry their originals around with them and in practice this seems to be fine. You will find many forms require your ID card number – you may be asked for it at the doctor’s surgery, when signing for a letter or parcel, or even for gym membership. Using your passport number is fine, but if you’re concerned about the security of your personal information don’t write it down, just show the staff your ID if they ask to see it. Often they won’t, unless ID is required by law, for example when buying a new SIM card for your mobile phone.