Thorough vetting for officers who will have access to Padu data

KUALA LUMPUR: To ensure the integrity of the Central Database Hub (Padu) and prevent data leaks, officers with access to its data will undergo a security vetting process conducted by the Chief Government Security Officer.

Deputy Economy Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib said only appointed officers have access to the data, which will be limited by their respective roles.

She said this is part of the standard operating procedure for managing the Padu system.

"An independent group of experts consisting of academics and professionals with expertise in various fields has also been appointed to play a check-and-balance role to ensure the effectiveness of Padu system security," she said when winding up debate on the Motion of Thanks for the Royal Address for the Ministry of Economy in the Dewan Negara on Monday (March 25).

She added that the government's decision to implement geofencing to restrict access within the country had also succeeded in reducing Padu security risks.

Meanwhile, she said the government would move towards phase two of Padu, which involves determining target groups and subsidy mechanisms after the updating period ends on March 31.

She said the government's focus over the past week was to increase the updating of individual and household information, especially in areas identified as at high risk of being left out from receiving government assistance. – Bernama