KUALA LUMPUR: Data from the Central Database Hub (Padu) will be used as the primary reference for the implementation of targeted subsidies for RON95 fuel, says Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.
The use of centralised data would enhance accuracy in identifying truly eligible recipients, he added.
Amir Hamzah, who is also the Economy Minister, said this would ensure that government subsidies are distributed more fairly and effectively.
"The implementation of targeted subsidies, with PADU being used by the Ministry of Finance, will serve as the reference for RON95 subsidy recipients.
“I believe this is the beginning, the first truly detailed approach that will be used," he said during Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat on Monday (Aug 4).
Aminolhuda Hassan (PH-Sri Gading) had asked the government to provide updates on Padu and efforts to ensure transparency.
Amir Hamzah said nine government agencies have been approved to access Padu data for their specific needs and policy coordination.
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"The government strongly encourages the use of Padu data among government agencies as part of efforts to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery," he said, adding that Padu currently contains over 30.4 million individual profiles.
He also said that following data integration from more than 200 government agencies, the system now has information on demographic, socioeconomic, educational, income and assistance status.
“The system is also utilising the expertise of our civil servants, and the practices are in line with the existing Acts, orders and circulars to ensure data safety,” he added.
Previously, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that Malaysians would soon enjoy RON95 petrol at a reduced price of RM1.99 per litre under a targeted subsidy scheme, with further details to be announced by the end of September.
