Malaysia has pioneered identity verification, being the first country to introduce a national ID card with a built-in chip. Yet, when it comes to adopting MyDigital ID, a secure national digital identity verification platform, many Malaysians remain hesitant. This reluctance stems largely from past controversies surrounding MySejahtera, PADU, and other government-related data platforms, leading to widespread concerns about privacy, cybersecurity, and government surveillance.
Ironically, while many fear data leaks from government initiatives, they freely share personal details on social media, use AI-based face apps, and engage in digital services with far fewer security measures. It’s time for a reality check on digital identity security.
The Trust Issue: MySejahtera, PADU & Data Security Concerns
The skepticism surrounding MyDigital ID largely originates from past experiences with MySejahtera, Malaysia’s COVID-19 contact tracing app. Initially praised for its efficiency, it later sparked data ownership controversies, with reports of possible private-sector involvement and unauthorized access. The issue led to public outrage, fueling distrust in government-managed digital platforms.
Similarly, PADU (Pangkalan Data Utama), a database meant for targeted subsidies, faced backlash when users questioned how their data was sourced and whether it was truly secure. Although the government assured the public that security measures were in place, the fear of data breaches remained.
Given these incidents, many Malaysians now view MyDigital ID skeptically, fearing that their sensitive personal information could be misused, sold, or hacked.
The Double Standard: Social Media, AI Apps & Unsecured Data Sharing
Despite these concerns, without hesitation, many Malaysians willingly share their faces, personal details, locations, home interiors, and daily routines on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. AI-powered face prediction apps, such as those that generate “aged versions” of yourself or “future baby photos”, collect biometric data, but hardly anyone questions where this data is stored or who has access to it.
Irony of Digital Risk Choices
- People hesitate to register for MyDigital ID, fearing government surveillance, yet they allow social media platforms to track their locations, search histories, and financial transactions.
- Many worry about data leaks from government databases but do not hesitate to link their Google accounts to multiple third-party apps, essentially handing over their entire digital identity.
- AI apps that “predict your future face” or “animate your childhood photo” require high-resolution biometric data, yet millions participate without questioning who owns those facial data points.
- Malaysians fear government databases but freely allow smart home devices (CCTVs, Google Nest, Alexa, etc.) to record private conversations in their homes.
The reality is that the biggest data miners are not governments but private corporations like Meta (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp), Google, TikTok, and Apple. These companies collect and sell user data for profit, often with minimal regulation. Yet, people continue to use them daily without question.
Malaysia Is Not the First to Implement a Digital ID
While Malaysia struggles with acceptance, many countries have already successfully implemented national digital identity platforms. Countries like India (Aadhaar), Estonia (e-Estonia), Denmark (MitID), Singapore (SingPass), and Canada (Verify Ontario) have used digital ID systems to enhance cybersecurity, streamline services, and reduce fraud.
Malaysia was a global pioneer in ID card technology when it introduced MyKad, yet the transition to MyDigital ID has been met with resistance. This reluctance puts Malaysia behind in digital security and modernization, despite having the infrastructure to lead.
The Reality: MyDigital ID Is More Secure Than Social Media & AI Apps
Unlike social media and AI-based applications, MyDigital ID operates under strict government regulations and legal frameworks. The Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) and cybersecurity measures are in place to ensure that the data remains protected, unlike unregulated AI apps that use facial data without user consent.
The benefits of MyDigital ID outweigh the risks:
✔️ Secure authentication for online banking, government services, and e-commerce.
✔️ Reduced fraud & identity theft, making digital transactions safer.
✔️ Elimination of multiple passwords, making access to services more convenient.
✔️ Data control, where users can choose how their data is used.
Conclusion: Awareness & Responsible Digital Practices
The reluctance to adopt MyDigital ID is understandable, given past concerns, but avoiding it does not make personal data safer. People voluntarily give away far more information to social media companies and AI platforms that operate without transparency. If we are comfortable using Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and AI apps that scan our faces, we should at least acknowledge the irony of rejecting a government-backed, regulated system designed to protect digital identities.
Rather than resisting MyDigital ID, Malaysians should focus on demanding transparency and stronger cybersecurity policies while practicing better personal data hygiene, not just for MyDigital ID but across all digital platforms.
Dr. Pavitira Manogaran is a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism and Wellness (FHPK), Universiti Malaysia Kelantan. She specializes in Business Information Technology, Hospitality Management, and Sustainable Practices. For inquiries or collaborations, she can be contacted at [email protected].
