KOTA KINABALU: The Luyang DAP service centre has come under scrutiny over its recent data collection practices, which have raised concerns about transparency and legality.
Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) vice-president Gee Tien Siong said over the past few days, the office has been collecting personal information from the public, including mobile phone numbers, identity card details, bank account information, employment records, and educational background.
“Applicants were required to photocopy a blank form, lacking any letterhead or official identification, at their own expense, further casting doubt on the legitimacy of the process,” said Gee in a statement on Thursday (Feb 27).
The initiative drew large crowds, particularly senior citizens, who queued for hours in hopes of securing financial assistance.
Gee noted that the gathering later moved to the ground floor of the Foh Sang Parking Building, amplifying concerns about the purpose and security of the data collection.
Gee, who is also the Luyang community development leader, has called for an immediate investigation, warning that the absence of clear procedures and verifiable documentation could lead to data misuse, fraud, and public deception.
He also questioned whether political motives were involved, as the initiative was exclusive to Luyang.
“If the promised subsidies do not exist, the public may be misled into false expectations, which could cause unnecessary dissatisfaction towards the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-led government,” he said.
Meanwhile, in a response, Chan Loong Wei, the political secretary to Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister and Luyang assemblyman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, confirmed that the initiative was part of the Sentuhan Kasih Rakyat 2025 (Syukur 2025) programme under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) secretariat.
He acknowledged concerns over the process and announced the immediate cessation of the data collection to prevent further speculation.
“In light of recent concerns regarding the data collection initiative for the Syukur 2025 programme conducted at the Luyang state assemblyman's office, we acknowledge that despite our good intentions, the initiative has led to unnecessary questions and could potentially be politicised,” said Chan, who is also Sabah Dapsy chief.
He explained that their primary objective was to assist eligible individuals in accessing financial aid under the SMJ secretariat, adding that the latter had been informed and acknowledged the initiative.
Chan stressed that to prevent further speculation and unnecessary controversy, they took Gee’s advice into account and have decided to immediately cease the operation.
“To ensure transparency and accountability, we will hand all collected information to the SMJ secretariat for their further action and we will not store any personal information,” said Chan, adding that Luyang DAP will guide the public to the official website for financial aid applications.
The public can apply for assistance via https://padans.sabah.gov.my.
Unlock 30% Savings on Ad-Free Access Now!
