KUALA LUMPUR: The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) has welcomed the government's proposal to integrate all welfare and aid programmes into the MyKad system, describing it as a positive and timely step towards better governance.
"Centralising the data and delivery system can enhance efficiency, coordination, and accountability, ensuring that public assistance reaches those who truly need it," said secretary-general Dr Saravanan Thambirajah when reached by the New Straits Times.
Saravanan cautioned, however, that the system must be underpinned by strong data protection and privacy safeguards to prevent misuse or leaks of personal information.
"Consumers' personal and financial information must be kept secure at all times," he said, adding that while digital integration could bring convenience, it must not compromise trust or fairness.
Saravanan said the initiative could ease the burden faced by vulnerable groups who currently deal with excessive bureaucracy and complicated documentation when applying for aid, reducing administrative hurdles and emotional strain.
He added that integrating data from federal, state, and zakat institutions could also prevent overlapping assistance and ensure fairer resource distribution.
Such transparency, he said, aligns with Malaysia's agenda for targeted subsidies and the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals of leaving no one behind.
However, he highlighted that protecting beneficiaries' identity and privacy was equally vital.
"The personal data of aid recipients and their families must be handled with the utmost care to avoid misuse, discrimination, or scams targeting vulnerable communities," he said.
Saravanan reiterated that Fomca ultimately supports the initiative as a move towards a more equitable, data-driven welfare system, provided it is guided by compassion, accountability, and sound data governance.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government is to integrate all forms of public assistance through the MyKad system to ensure transparency and effective coordination.
During a session of the Dewan Rakyat today, Anwar said the move would allow the government to track the total aid received by each household, including allocations from federal and state agencies as well as zakat institutions.