Malaysia has been making notable strides in technological advancement, positioning itself as a critical player in the global digital landscape. The government of Malaysia has been proactive in leveraging these technological developments to drive economic growth, enhance public services, and foster innovation. Embracing the digital era, Malaysia has invested significantly in infrastructure, education, and research and development to create a conducive environment for technological progress.
Introducing – National Digital Identity (Digital ID). An initiative to transform virtual identification, specifically in enhancing identity verification for online transactions, is set to benefit the public and private sectors. However, this Digital ID is not to replace our blue MyKad, but it is a means to ease online verifications of user’s identity.
MyDigital App
Communication and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil
During its launch last week, Communication and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil guaranteed secure personal data protection and reliable cyber security with the launching of the MyDigital app amidst the rising concern of data leak occurrences. Together with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Malaysian Institute of Microelectronic Systems (MIMOS), the two government bodies will be responsible for the implementation and administration of the MyDigital app.
In his speech, Fahmi Fadzil highlighted no biometric identifications such as facial recognition or iris scan are needed to activate one’s MyDigital app. A snap of the user’s MyKad and a quick fingerprint scan are the only two things necessary to complete the registration process. As easy as that!
Fahmi also debunked the ridiculous allegations of needing to implant chips in one’s body to utilize the app. “No need to get all imaginative,” in his statement denying the allegation during the press conference.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim registering for MyDigital app
In other news, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was the first person in Malaysia to have his digital ID registered at Perdana Putra in conjunction with its launch last Friday. Again, debunking the absurd claim made by irresponsible parties of chips being implanted into an individual’s body – “They have been watching too many Hollywood movies,” he told the reporters. With the Prime Minister being the first person to register for the Digital ID, it is expected to boost the public’s confidence and encourage them to integrate it into their daily lives.
National Digital Identity Objectives
Pioneered by MCMC as an initiative to meet the need to verify the identities of individuals who accessed electronic services and perform transactions and digital signatures to be utilized for government sectors moving forward. The database is also available for private sectors who wish to adopt its technology for their applications. But, of course, it is with strict governance by the administrative bodies.
This initiative aimed to support the government's digital service efficiently and enhance the development of the digital economy inclusively while elevating confidence in government and private online services. With an allocation of RM80 million from the Federal government, the first phase of its launch is set to serve 1.6 million users, a majority of whom are public servants.
An instance to better illustrate the ease of the MyDigital app is when an individual registers for the MyJPJ app, there’s no need for them to start the registration process from scratch. With the database from the MyDigital app, the verification is instantaneous – no more fiddling around creating long passwords. I’m sold! Where do I sign up?
You can read more on the National Digital Identity (Digital ID) here.
Malaysia's initiative to embrace digital verification marks a significant step towards a more secure, efficient, and modernized landscape. The government's commitment to leveraging digital technologies for verification processes underscores its recognition of the transformative power of innovation. As the nation continues to invest in and implement digital verification solutions, it paves the way for increased trust, convenience, and progress in the digital era. Malaysia Boleh!
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, MCMC & various cross-references for context.
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