DATA on 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 (pic).
Amir Hamzah, who is also the Acting Economy Minister, said the use of centralised data under Padu would enhance the accuracy in identifying eligible recipients.
He said this would ensure that government subsidies are distributed more fairly and effectively.
“The implementation of targeted subsidies, with Padu being used by the Finance Ministry, 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 yesterday.
He was responding to a question by Aminolhuda Hassan (PH-Sri Gading), who had asked the government to state the updates on Padu and efforts to ensure transparency.
Amir Hamzah said nine government agencies have been given access to Padu data for their specific needs and policy coordination.
“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.
The Padu system currently contains over 30.4 million individual profiles, he added.
He also said that following data integration from more than 200 government agencies, the system now has information on demographics, socioeconomic status, education, 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 will 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.
