KUALA LUMPUR (March 29): The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) said it is “reckless” to state that the Central Database Hub (Padu) was developed using outdated methods, as details of its system and architecture were not disclosed to the public.
“The details of the Padu system and architecture are also not disclosed to the public, so the statement that the Padu system development method is outdated is inappropriate and imprudent,” said the department in a statement on Friday.
DOSM said the in-house development of Padu had taken into account the latest technology, methods and design.
“The use of API (Application Programming Interface) is one of the important mechanisms in this Padu system and will continue to be increased based on the dynamics, complexity and availability of databases in various agencies,” said the department.
In the development of this system, DOSM said there are elements that need to be implemented in stages, taking into account the availability of data standards, structures, coverage, concepts and definitions used in various data provider agencies.
“Next, aspects of mapping and data collection need to be implemented. Therefore, this system will produce an accurate database and become a strategic asset of the country,” it said.
DOSM also said the government has pre-determined objectives that it wants to achieve, which covers the dimensions of data integration from various sources, dimensions of analytics and security.
“Padu is the government's latest initiative to create a database that is a single source of truth in strengthening the implementation of programs and the use of national financial resources for the well-being of the people.
“Meanwhile, Padu is not only used as a data updating medium, rather, Padu performs various main analytical functions and goes beyond the scope of transactions and data updates. Accordingly, the design developed by Padu is the best, safe and effective,” said DOSM.
The department was responding to recent news articles, citing cybersecurity expert, reporting that Padu had been developed using outdated methods.