According to a recent report, The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) noted that Malaysia moving in the right direction with regards to the Digital ID project.
This confirmation was announced by the agency’s Head of Division, Digital Services and Data Platform. He said that 2019 would be the year of the Digital ID field, where it was being formulated to provide a verifiable platform of trust in cyberspace.
The Head explained that the Digital ID enables the government to ensure and prove people’s identity especially when people do business or are dealing with it via online method. With the ID, people can ensure that they are dealing with the right person.
The Head noted that as an extra measure towards realising the Malaysian Digital ID, the Communications and Multimedia Ministry had brought forward the proposal to the Cabinet for this Digital ID to be implemented.
It was noted that the Digital ID project included a few phases before being implemented, such as field study and technologies landscape, as well as the cost benefit.
It is expected that the coming year will see a lot happening with the Digital ID project; the study will most likely be completed in the second quarter of 2019 and quarter three and four will leave more room for other things regarding the Digital ID to be done.
Earlier, the Deputy Communications and Multimedia Minister urged that industry players to act quickly and keep pace with the rapid advancement in the digital technology revolution.
It was noted that information and communication technology (ICT) was transforming and building societies to be more resilient and sustainable, as it had the extraordinary potential to improve social and economic development, as well as environmental protection.
OpenGov Asia reported on Malaysia’s Digital ID earlier, noting that the ID will serve as a “platform of trust” aimed at eliminating elements of fraud and cheating. He had stated that a plan for a national digital ID is being formulated.
In October 2018, it was noted that the digital ID is not meant to replace the current form of identity verification which is a compulsory identity card for Malaysian citizens aged 12 and above, nor would it be mandatory for everyone.
The minister explained that while MDEC has vast experience in the area, it would be bringing in other stakeholders. He added that to ensure the legality of the creation of this national digital ID, the ministry would study various pieces of existing legislation, including the Personal Data Protection Act 2010.
According to the minister, possessing the national digital ID would enable Malaysians to enjoy numerous benefits. Moreover, a national digital ID will be an integral and crucial platform for the digital government initiative.
It was noted that the government or its agencies can deliver targeted subsidies efficiently via an e-Wallet account that has been registered using the national digital ID.
