Rural residents without mobile networks cannot access Padu, targeted subsidies

A screenshot of the main page of the Central Database Hub (Padu) system website.

KUCHING, Jan 3: The lack of digital networks in rural and interior areas poses a “real” problem that could hinder people from registering with the Central Database Hub (Padu) system and consequently deprive them of access to targeted subsidies and other government assistance programmes.

Senator Abun Sui Anyit, while acknowledging the importance of Padu in preventing corruption and ensuring efficient subsidy distribution, expressed reservations about the feasibility of rural and interior communities benefiting from the system, given that a mobile phone line with a reliable broadband connection is essential for successful Padu registration.

“A mobile phone line is necessary to receive the OTP (one time password) from Padu during registration.

“Therefore, urgent action is needed from relevant ministries, including telecommunication providers like DiGi and Celcom, to ensure rural and interior populations have access to digital networks,” he said in a statement today.

Padu, established by the federal government, aims to become the most comprehensive database system, encompassing individual and household profiles of 32 million citizens and permanent residents in Malaysia. Managed by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DoSM), it currently includes nearly 300 types of data, with plans to gradually incorporate data from state and local governments, excluding banking information.

Abun Sui also cautioned against deploying the Flying Squad service for Padu registration until issues with telecommunication and broadband networks are addressed as otherwise, such efforts would go to waste.

“For instance in Long Busang, there may already be Internet connection (through WiFi) but there are no mobile phone lines yet. Telco providers like DiGi, Celcom, and Maxis need to install the necessary infrastructure and equipment first,” he explained.

Abun Sui expressed concerns that Padu would not be able to achieve its objective of having Malaysians update details on the system by March 31.

“Real constraints like this should be overcome first. If not, those unable to register but eligible could be dropped out from the enjoying the targeted subsidies and aid from the government,” he emphasised.

Padu is envisioned as a national database providing socio-economic information for every household in Malaysia, offering regular analytics with data updated in “near real time”. Padu will eventually integrate with MyDigital ID, the country’s national digital identification system, at a later date, to facilitate data-driven policymaking and targeted policy implementation. — DayakDaily