Govt source plays down Ong’s claim about Padu identity theft

 

Malaysians have been encouraged to register with the Padu database to verify and update their socioeconomic data.

PETALING JAYA: A government source has disputed a former deputy minister’s claim that Malaysians who do not register with the Central Database Hub (Padu) face the risk of identity theft.

In a post on X, former deputy investment, trade and industry minister Ong Kian Ming alleged that those who do not register with Padu could see others use their identity cards and postcodes to “register your IC on your behalf”.

Ong said this was as the registration for Padu accounts is done prior to the electronic Know-Your-Customer (e-KYC) approval, which Ong claimed needs three days to be completed.

“It will be a hassle to get your account back!” claimed Ong.

However, a government source who spoke to FMT on condition of anonymity has disputed Ong’s claim, stressing that the e-KYC process for Padu requires users to upload a selfie of themselves with their identity card.

“So even if someone else has your IC number and your postcode, they won’t pass the e-KYC process,” said the source.

The source added that while the industry standard for e-KYC is three days, it has been “instantaneous” for Padu – adding that “most people have already got their e-KYC done”.

Padu, which was launched by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today, is aimed at ensuring the efficient delivery of targeted subsidies.

Malaysians have been encouraged to register with Padu to verify and update their socioeconomic data.

Managed by the statistics department, Padu covers nearly 300 types of data under the federal government. Data from state and local governments will eventually be included.

The database will not be integrated with bank information systems as it is illegal under the Financial Services Act. - FMT