The Data Sharing Act 2025: Enhancing Governmental Efficiency and Public Services

The Malaysian Parliament recently enacted the Data Sharing Act 2025, a significant piece of legislation designed to facilitate data sharing between public sector agencies. This Act aims to streamline governmental operations and enhance the delivery of public services. It also establishes a robust framework for responsible data management.

Key Provisions of the Act

• Data Sharing Principles

The Act complements existing legislation on data sharing, providing further clarity and guidelines for its implementation. It underscores the importance of maintaining data confidentiality, particularly in accordance with the Official Secrets Act 1972.

• Oversight and Governance

A dedicated body, the National Data Sharing Committee, is tasked with formulating data sharing policies and strategies. This committee plays a crucial role in overseeing the Act's implementation and addressing any challenges that may arise.

• The Director General's Mandate

The Director General of the National Digital Department is entrusted with the responsibility of executing data sharing policies, coordinating inter-agency cooperation, and providing expert advice to the committee.

• Data Sharing Procedures

Public sector agencies can request data from other agencies by submitting a formal request outlining the purpose of the data request and the security measures in place to protect the data.

Data sharing is permissible for specific purposes, including enhancing government service delivery, safeguarding public health and safety, and responding to emergencies.

The agency receiving a data request must assess the request, considering the public interest and the requesting agency's data security protocols.

The Act also outlines circumstances where agencies can refuse data sharing requests, such as when national security or ongoing investigations are involved.

• Data Security and Confidentiality

Stringent measures are in place to ensure the responsible handling of shared data. Agencies are obligated to protect data from unauthorised access, maintain comprehensive records of shared data, and promptly report any security breaches.

Implications for the Public

The Data Sharing Act 2025 is poised to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of government services. By promoting responsible data sharing, agencies can collaborate more effectively to better serve the public.

What does this mean for you?

The Data Sharing Act 2025 has the potential to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of public services. By enabling responsible data sharing between government agencies, the Act aims to streamline processes, facilitate smoother service delivery, and improve overall responsiveness to public needs. This could translate to faster processing times for applications, more coordinated service provision, and better-informed decision-making on public programs and infrastructure development. Ultimately, the Act seeks to optimise how the government serves its citizens, leading to more streamlined and effective public services.

Disclaimer: This article offers an overview of the Data Sharing Act 2025 and should not be considered as legal advice. All information in this article is considered up-to-date and correct as at the date of publication.