Putrajaya's Central Database Hub (Padu) will focus on acting as a "backend" for other government agencies while implementing data analytics measures, said Economy Minister Akmal Nasir.
The minister explained that Padu, which has managed to collect profile data on 30.7 million individuals, functions as a "unified platform" which can aid agencies in reducing data verification work.
He noted that besides data collected from individuals directly during previous rounds of registration processes, Padu also continuously receives data from other government services.
"That process (data collection) has been completed and refined, with Padu now functioning as a dynamic backend data system.
"This year, we are focusing on services offered to government agencies," Akmal told a press conference in Putrajaya today.
He added that while agencies had previously utilised Padu for data verification services as the database had compiled cross-platform data, the Economy Ministry has plans to develop the database's ability to provide analytical readings.
"For analytics, it involves a deeper evaluation. For example, if the government provides loans, can we analyse the borrower’s ability to repay?" Akmal posited.
"Or analytics for broader policies, such as (those involving) an ageing nation. When we discuss policies involving an ageing population, this involves individuals.
"With nine key profile parameters, we can identify locations or localities, and also analyse socio-economic backgrounds. So, even if an area is identified as ageing, we can assess whether services for that group are needed or can be provided by the government," he added.
Analytical grounding
Akmal highlighted that by combining socio-economic data with other parameters, policy implementation will not rely solely on estimates or projections, as they will instead have a sense of "analytical grounding".
The minister said that without analytics, relying solely on data sometimes requires hypotheses or interpretation, which also needs expertise in statistics and data usage.
"This is the service we offer agencies - not just to verify information, but also to analyse it and assist in decision-making.
"That is why Padu now functions as a backend, with agencies acting as the front-end," he added.
He further reiterated that while verification and data checking are already embedded in Padu's work framework, the ministry is working on additional enhancements, including analytics capabilities.
"Like any system, once built, we must ensure its capabilities are utilised.
"The challenge is ensuring agencies understand the significance of these services, which will help them perform their duties," Akmal said.
Padu’s capabilities
Previously, former economy minister Rafizi Ramli, who spearheaded Padu's development, claimed Putrajaya could have better managed oil price shocks stemming from the West Asia conflict if its targeted fuel subsidies had been based on Padu.
Asserting that the government had in 2023 agreed to float fuel prices and implement cash-transfer subsidies to ensure that government aid only reached eligible income groups, he alleged that political considerations had stymied this plan.
Last month, PKR MP Lee Chean Chung had called for the implementation and continuous improvement of main database systems such as Padu, amid ongoing issues related to fuel price hikes and reduced subsidy quotas.
Arguing that the optimisation of Padu’s system would aid in ensuring more accurate aid distribution, the Petaling Jaya MP said the government should adopt a more far-sighted approach in dealing with such matters.
Akmal today also shared that as of March this year, 26 government agencies, including the Public Service Department, the National Higher Education Fund, and the Penang State Secretary's Office, have been approved to utilise Padu's services.
Other agencies involved thus far include those under the Human Resources Ministry, the Youth and Sports Ministry, and the National Digital Department, with Akmal predicting the participation of more agencies in the future.
Akmal further affirmed that the government "does not intend" to monetise Padu's capabilities, stressing that the current focus is on improving government services. - Mkini
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