Govt not taking over passport, MyKad supplier Datasonic

 The National Security Council says the government will continue to ensure identity services remain safe and trusted.

NexG Bhd said in a bourse filing on Friday the finance ministry had asked for an indicative price for the possible acquisition of its wholly owned unit Datasonic, and that a figure of RM7.5 billion had been suggested based on an internal assessment. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA:

The government will not acquire Datasonic Technologies Sdn Bhd, the supplier of the country’s passports and national identity cards, says the National Security Council (MKN).

This comes after Datasonic’s parent company revealed yesterday that the government was considering acquiring the company at a preliminary indicative value of RM7.5 billion.

In a statement today, MKN said the identity of citizens was among the country’s most important strategic assets, and that the government placed the highest priority on its security and sovereignty.

“Regarding media reports on the proposed acquisition of Datasonic, which provides identity services to the public, the government is of the position that it will not take over Datasonic,” it said.

MKN said the government would continue to explore proactive and effective strategies to safeguard identity security while ensuring value for money.

“The government remains committed to ensuring that all parties involved continue to provide services to citizens that are safe and trustworthy,” it said.

In a filing with Bursa Malaysia yesterday, the parent company of Datasonic, NexG Bhd, said it had been asked at a meeting with the finance ministry in July to provide an indicative price for the possible acquisition of its wholly owned unit.

NexG said the RM7.5 billion indicative value was based on an internal assessment by its management and did not constitute an independent valuation, agreed transaction value, or firm offer.

“Any potential transaction remains subject to further discussions and negotiations between the relevant parties and/or an independent valuation, where appropriate,” it said.

In 2025, Datasonic was awarded two six-year contracts worth about RM2.5 billion to supply Malaysian passports and MyKads until 2032. - FMT