PUTRAJAYA: The new Central Database Hub (Padu) will ensure there are no leakages in the distribution of aid.
However, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who launched the database today, said Malaysians themselves will play a crucial role in ensuring that aid is not distributed to those who do not need it.
Malaysians, he said, have to register and update their household information in order to prevent them from missing out on future assistance.
Anwar said Padu, which combines data from various government agencies under one roof, was one of the outcomes of the Madani government's new approach, demonstrating the agile implementation and collective efforts of the whole government.
"The idea of developing Padu was discussed during the National Economic Action Council (NEAC) meeting on May 15, 2023, with an emphasis on phased implementation to ensure a smooth and integrated system.
"Today marks the initial pioneering steps. However, the journey ahead is still far.
"The development and audit processes will continue to enhance the quality of this initial product," he said.
According to Anwar, the commitment to develop Padu was to provide a comprehensive and integrated database of profiles of the Malaysian population.
Essentially, he said, Padu serves as the primary national data platform involving the integration and sharing of data among all relevant government agencies.
"This data sharing encompasses Padu merging information on income, demographics, and assistance received by the population.
"By building holistic profiles for each individual, it enables data analysis, and aids in formulating more precise policies to meet the people's needs," he noted.
Anwar added that comprehensive data sources like Padu and other databases such as Rahmah Cash Contribution and e-madani assistance settlements were instrumental in implementing subsidy reforms.
"The specific methodology for this step will be communicated at an appropriate time, following discussions with all stakeholders.
"I assure you that the well-being of the people will never be overlooked," he said.
With comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date data in Padu, said Anwar, the government can enhance assistance to the people by ensuring that all eligible individuals receive aid.
Simultaneously, he said, it helps minimise wastage by reducing assistance to those who are not eligible.
"In other words, it can minimise inclusion and exclusion errors. Padu is a crucial element in the government's strategy for targeted subsidy implementation," he noted.
Meanwhile, in the process of developing Padu, Anwar said the emphasis on system security and the prevention of information leaks was a top priority for all parties involved.
He said to ensure secure data handling, cybersecurity aspects, including system security and personal information protection, receive special attention.
"In this regard, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli has made the best efforts to ensure that there are no data leaks originating from Padu," he said.
