Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah speaking to reporters after launching the 27th Rainforest World Music Festival in Kuching on Friday (March 22). - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: The Sarawak government has reservations about the sheer amount of personal information required by the Central Database Hub (Padu), says a state minister.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the matter was discussed in the state Cabinet with a view of requesting some changes for Sarawak.
"We have our reservations. We are not saying we are not supportive. If it is with good intentions, of course we will support Padu.
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"But when it comes to Sarawak, there are some pertinent matters that we want (the Economy Ministry) to clarify and probably certain details it doesn't have to ask for," he told reporters after launching the 27th Rainforest World Music Festival here on Friday (March 22).
Abdul Karim said registering with Padu was akin to exposing all of one's personal details, including bank accounts and investments.
"I don't think that is the proper way to treat citizens. All of us have a right to privacy," he said.
He also questioned the need for Padu as there were already existing systems like eKasih to identify and assist the poor.
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As such, he said the Federal Government should not rush into implementing Padu.
"If Padu is meant to help the poor, let the poor register. But don't go across the board requiring everybody to register," he added.
