In the past 3 months, Malaysians have been abuzz, asking friends if they’ve registered for their PADU profiles and urging each other to get it done before the end of March. And so the question: What is PADU?
So, what is PADU?
To put it plainly, PADU stands for Pangkalan Data Utama, or Central Database Hub in english.
This sounds like a big deal, especially since there’s been a deadline set for Malaysians to register. With the deadline coming up so soon, Malaysians are questioning the importance of registering in the system and how safe it really is to have their information on such a vast database.
PADU Malaysia was launched in January of 2024 as a collaboration between the Ministry of Economy, Department of Statistics Malaysia and Unit Pemodenan Tadbiran Dan Perancangan Pengurusan Malaysia (MAMPU), while partnering with various data supply agencies.
The unfamiliarity of the system divides opinions on social media but Malaysians continue to register, as of 23 March, more than 7.3 million Malaysians have registered for PADU. Many have registered worrying that missing out would mean losing benefits within the status quo, such as the RON95 incentive.
What is the purpose of PADU?
The motive behind PADU’s birth is to ensure that the government provides aid to all those in need, whether through monetary distribution or subsidies.
Alongside PADU’s main purpose, they strive to improve how both citizens and Permanent Residents’ personal data is stored in order to be used effectively by the Rakyat.
PADU’s 3 main objectives are to:
- Provide a secure, all rounded and “near real time” main country database for regular analytical production and “leak-proof” digitization.
- Make informed decisions based on data.
- Balancing the economical position through targeted policy implementation.
PADU also aims to increase the efficiency of the government’s service delivery system and strengthen Malaysian society through the improvement of both the economy and people’s welfare. PADU strives to decrease the socioeconomic gap by meeting the Rakyat’s needs and balancing development.
Should I register for PADU as a Malaysian? Is it a MUST?
There is currently no enforcement of the system by the government, so the choice of registering is still in the people’s hands. Despite this, the official PADU website warns unregistered Rakyats that they may risk missing out on appropriate social assistance and protection.
How do I register for PADU? Will it be difficult?
Finally, to answer the most asked question, no, it is not difficult to register for PADU. Even if you aren’t as tech-savvy as a Gen Z, it only takes 3 simple procedures to get yourself registered. (Basic information, account validation & set password) Here’s a video guide on how to get yourself registered for PADU, alternatively, follow the step-by-step guide below:
Step 1: Access PADU’s official website https://padu.gov.my/ and look for the big “Daftar Sekarang” or “Sign up Now” button.
Step 2: Click on it and you will be brought to this page, and here is where you will have to insert your basic details like your full name, IC number, phone number etc.
Step 3: An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to the phone number that you input in the last step, so make sure the phone number you input is the one that you use!
Step 4: Create a password for your account! Make sure to follow the tips given in the blue box below to create a strong password.
Step 5: Scan the QR code with your phone camera and follow the web link.
Step 6: You should be brought to PADU’s website which then instructs you to take a picture of the front and back of your IC, as well as a face recognition, to verify your details. Make sure the picture shows your details in a clear and concise manner and tadaaa– You will be shown a confirmation page to verify that you have successfully registered!
Step 7: You can now log in to your PADU account and update any other necessary details.
PADU: Nothing to lose.
So to my Malaysians, especially if you’re in the middle to lower income bracket, take a few minutes and complete a sign-up of your PADU account. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
In the future, many subsidies, benefits or government aid distribution may heavily rely on this database. If you know anyone who needs aid but doesn’t have access to the internet or struggles with digital literacy, make sure to lend them a helping hand with their PADU registration.
Resources:
https://www.malaysianow.com/news/2024/03/25/padu-big-data-or-big-brother
https://malaysiagazette.com/2024/01/10/padu-we-need-the-answers/
