KUALA LUMPUR: The Central Database Hub (Padu) has successfully transitioned into a dynamic backend engine, with 26 government agencies currently using the platform to streamline their data verification processes, says Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir (pic).
The Economy Minister said that for this year, the government is fully focused on implementing and expanding Padu's service offerings to other agencies, moving past the initial public registration phase.
Among the agencies already plugged into the system are the Public Service Department (JPA), the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN), the Skills Development Department under the Human Resources Ministry, the Youth and Sports Ministry, the National Digital Department, and the Penang state government.
ALSO READ: Central Database Hub (Padu) is now live
"Padu now serves as a unified backend platform for other government services. Currently, 26 agencies are using it primarily for data verification.
"However, starting May 2026, we will be adding a new service offering focused on advanced data analytics," he told reporters after the Economy Ministry's monthly assembly on April 20 (Monday).
Akmal explained that while current users rely on Padu to cross-check and verify applicant details — such as for scholarships, loans, or grants — the upcoming analytics feature will allow agencies to make highly targeted, data-driven policy decisions.
"For example, if the government provides a loan, we can run an analysis on the recipient's capability to make repayments. On a larger scale, we can analyse the aging population. By combining socio-economic backgrounds with other parameters, we can accurately identify if specific government services can be offered to these groups in a targeted locality.
ALSO READ: Development cost of Padu hub reaches RM85.27mil
"We want to ensure that government decisions are not just based on estimates or hypotheses, but are backed by solid statistical elements and analysis," he said.
Addressing the system's data integrity following the end of the voluntary public registration period, Akmal assured that Padu remains highly dynamic and is continuously updated.
The database currently holds 30.7 million individual profiles, dynamically fed by roughly 600 consistent data points from various government touchpoints, including the National Registration Department (JPN) and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) registrations.
"Because it is a centralised platform, any agency that needs to verify or analyze data only needs to come to Padu. They no longer need to check separately with the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO), or the Employees Provident Fund (EPF). They can get all the needed data in advance," he said.
When asked if the RM85mil allocated for Padu's development was well spent, Akmal said the system has already proven its return on investment through massive efficiency gains within the civil service.
ALSO READ: Padu national database registrations open from Jan 2, to be used in targeted subsidies
"The challenge now is to make sure other agencies understand the significance of these services. Those who are already using Padu have found it incredibly helpful.
"Based on testimonials, one agency reported saving 20% of their time and energy. You can imagine the previous process where they had to validate information across multiple different agencies. For instance, the Youth and Sport Ministry reported that Padu helped reduce the time needed for data verification for their programmes by 20%," he said.
Akmal also noted that the ministry is currently evaluating a new application from the Social Welfare Department (JKM) to utilise the system, which is expected to be approved by April.
He firmly ruled out any possibility of opening Padu to the private sector.
"I don't think we want to monetise this. Our complete focus is strictly on enhancing government services," he added.
