SHAH ALAM: The March 31 deadline for Central Database Hub (Padu) registration should stay, as extending it would result in eligible recipients not receiving government assistance on time.
Putra Business School economic analyst Associate Professor Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff said with only a week remaining before the deadline, it is crucial for people to quickly register or update their information with Padu.
"If the deadline is to be extended, it would postpone the roll out of targeted subsidies, causing eligible recipients to receive aid later than expected.
"Therefore, those who have not yet registered must act quickly to avoid missing out on potential government aid," he said.
Razman said the government must also intensify efforts to encourage registration with Padu.
"Efforts should be intensified on the ground, especially at high-traffic locations like shopping malls, Ramadan bazaars, and mosques among others."
Universiti Kuala Lumpur Business School economic analyst Associate Professor Aimi Zulhazmi Abdul Rashid said any extension to the deadline not only delays the government's programme to restructure the economy but also puts further pressure on the country's financial expenditure, especially the country's debt.
"Hence, the government needs to be more aggressive in getting those who have yet to register to be on board, through coordination of ministries and government agencies.
"University students can be utilised, by deploying them to assist with the registration, especially in the B40 and M40 areas.
"Incentives can be given, like e-vouchers, especially those in the B40 groups and students. Set up booths at public places, including Ramadan bazaars nationwide, to encourage the public to register."
Earlier today, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said that the government has no plans to extend the March 31 deadline for Padu registration.
He said that extending the deadline would delay the government's planned subsidy restructuring and implementation of targeted subsidies.
Additionally, individuals who fail to register or update their information in Padu risk missing out on government assistance and subsidies.
Padu was launched on Jan 2, and the public is given until March 31 to register and update their details in the system.
The implementation of Padu aims to enhance governance and improve policy planning and implementation based on data.
It is not only focused on retargeting subsidies and aid but also aimed at comprehensively identifying the socioeconomic status of the people.
