KUCHING: Lack of trust and confidence remains a significant barrier preventing Malaysians from embracing the Central Database Hub (PADU) system.
Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCGCCI) secretary-general Datuk Jonathan Chai Voon Tok said the people are wary of volunteering personal information that may be misused and even cause them to lose money.
“There have been some reports over the flaws of the system, concerns over privacy, risks of data being leaked, security and surveillance.
“The government must ensure that the data is gathered, maintained, and utilised in a responsible and ethical manner and will only be used for the prescribed purposes,” he told New Sarawak Tribune.
Thus, he asserted that the government must ensure that PADU is equipped with sufficient data protection and governance systems, such as encryption, authentication, authorisation, audit and supervision.
He said this is crucial in enhancing its credibility and raising the level of trust and confidence of the general public.
Additionally, Chai said the government has to be mindful of individuals residing in remote areas of Sarawak and Sabah, which have no access to internet connectivity.
Intentional efforts and interventions must be put in place to ensure that no one is being left out, he added.
Malaysian Academy of Science Fellow Datuk Dr Madeline Berma echoed similar sentiments, stating that transparency is the key to addressing public scepticism towards the PADU system.
She pointed out that the terms of use lack provisions for disclosing which entities will utilise the data and for what purposes.
“Concerns were raised by Malaysians that compiling information such as earnings, health status, religion, and education could lead to social control and potentially be exploited for political purposes,” she said.
Therefore, she urged the government to openly communicate its data practices to allow Malaysians to make informed choices about whether to register with PADU and use its services and how to protect their information.
“Transparency also allows Malaysians to hold the Government accountable if they mishandle the data,” she added.
Meanwhile, Chai highlighted a potential barrier among affluent individuals who may perceive themselves ineligible for government subsidies, thus lacking motivation to register with PADU.
As such, he suggested the government to incentivise registration through a mega lucky draw offering attractive prizes or cash rewards before a deadline to stimulate public interest.
