Data users must register with personal data protection dept before Feb 15

PUTRAJAYA: All quarters categorised as 'data users' under the Personal Data Protection (Class of Data Users) Order have been advised to register with the Personal Data Protection Department before Feb 15.

Communication and Multimedia Ministry in a statement on Thursday, said the act of processing personal data in an unregistered commercial transaction was an offence under Section 16 of the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (Act 709), which carries a maximum fine of RM500,000 or imprisonment of three years, or both, if convicted.

"Failure to register will also affect their chances to participate in the Data Users Forum, which to be set up to formulate the Code of Practice," the statement said.

Categorised as 'data users' under the Order were those in the communication, finance, banking, insurance, health, tourism and hospitality, transportation, education, direct selling, property and utility sectors.

However, those not categorised as 'data users' under the Order, were also advised to take necessary compliance measures, including to provide, review and improve the existing policy, procedure, process and system related to personal data processing, so that it would be in line with the Act.

"The Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (Act 709) was enforced on Nov 15 last year and existing data users should take the necessary measures to comply, including by registering with the Personal Data Protection Commissioner," the statement said.

Further information about the registration process is available at www.pdp.gov.my. - Bernama