Padu database is secure, says Fahmi

Government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil said information in the Padu system is encrypted and any data thief would not be able to open or access the data.

PUTRAJAYA: Government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil has dismissed claims that the central database hub (Padu) was developed using outdated methods, potentially compromising its data integrity.

Fahmi, who is also the communications minister, said the system was developed with guidance, advice and feedback from several key entities involved in managing national cybersecurity efforts, including the national cybersecurity agency and CyberSecurity Malaysia.

“I see no problem because, as the economy minister recently mentioned in the Dewan Rakyat, the data stored in the Padu system is encrypted. Therefore, even in the event of a data theft, the thief would not be able to open or access the data,” he told reporters.

He said additional safety guidelines and measures had been implemented “and I am confident with the level of security”.

Fahmi’s comments followed claims by a cybersecurity expert that Padu was developed using outdated methods, which could potentially compromise its data integrity.

Fahmi Fadzil.

Fong Choong Fook, CEO of LGMS Bhd, said modern organisations today prefer using an API gateway to access distributed data instead of depending on a duplicated centralised database.

Tax waivers for major events

Fahmi said the communications ministry is exploring the possibility of offering tax waivers to organisers of major international concerts, sporting events, and festivals.

He said it was part of efforts to streamline the process, making it simpler, quicker, and ensuring the facilities are adequate for the types of events the government aims to attract.

Earlier today, the Thai government intensified its efforts to establish the country as a tourism hotspot by offering tax waivers to organisers of major international concerts, sporting events, and festivals.

Constituency funds

Speaking after today’s Cabinet meeting, Fahmi confirmed that no draft documents had been prepared about constituency allocations. He said the Cabinet is currently processing and reviewing some suggestions, with the next step being to present these suggestions to the leadership council of the unity government.

“After that, if discussions with the opposition proceed smoothly, the matter will then return to the Cabinet for a decision,” he said.