Kuala Lumpur: The Digital Ministry is set to introduce a Data Digitalisation Policy next month, aiming to bolster the enforcement of the Data Sharing Act 2025 (Act 864). Minister Gobind Singh Deo announced that the policy, crafted by the National Digital Department (JDN), targets improving data quality governance, data security, digital ethics, and data storage and usage technologies, while fostering a digital culture within government administration and public service delivery.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Gobind emphasized the necessity of ensuring data is in digital form, especially for advancements in fields like artificial intelligence (AI), as several government datasets remain in analogue formats. Following the first meeting of the National Data Sharing Committee, Gobind revealed a three-month deadline for JDN to finalize the policy, with hopes to present it to the Cabinet by July.
The policy's implementation will extend beyond the federal level to include state governments and local authorities, aiming for consistent data quality that enhances policymaking and public services. Gobind highlighted that the full digitalisation of government data will facilitate better data sharing and analysis through AI, leading to innovative and realistic cross-sector solutions.
The Data Sharing Act 2025, effective since April 28, establishes a legal framework for secure data sharing among federal ministries and agencies. This framework is expected to enhance public service delivery by providing real-time data access, accelerating decision-making, and improving coordination without compromising data security or personal privacy. Gobind noted the benefits of a connected, data-driven government that protects public welfare and promotes economic growth.
Furthermore, Gobind pointed out that agency data sharing could reduce redundancy in data collection, lower costs, and improve public service efficiency, ultimately strengthening public trust through transparency and accountability. He called for state governments to introduce their own data sharing laws to facilitate integration with federal and local systems, noting positive responses from Penang, Selangor, and Sarawak.
Gobind plans to visit each state to discuss these matters directly with chief ministers and menteris besar. During the meeting, he acknowledged the legal and technical challenges of data sharing among public agencies, states, and local authorities, expressing hope that the National Data Sharing Committee will streamline and facilitate secure inter-agency data sharing.