Malaysia (Commonwealth Union)_ Malaysia is taking a significant step forward in its digital transformation path with the launch of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which defines a vision for a fully connected, digitally driven nation. The implementation of MyDigital ID, a secure, unified digital identification that will provide Malaysians with expedited access to government services, is a critical component of this strategy. By 2030, the government intends to make 95% of its services available totally online. Access to these services will be consolidated through a single government portal, with MyDigital ID serving as the gateway. The program is part of the Ministry of Digital’s larger initiatives to improve public service delivery, strengthen cybersecurity, and increase digital trust.
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According to Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, the 13MP will also launch other key innovations, including the establishment of a National Data Bank and the use of digital twin technology. “The National Data Bank will store quality datasets from across ministries and agencies, allowing for more efficient access to information and better decision-making,” he explained. Meanwhile, the development of digital twin technologies will enable the government to simulate real-world circumstances digitally in real time. This may be used to evaluate policies and forecast results in complicated fields such as disaster response, transportation planning, and healthcare. “These technologies will support AI-powered decision-making across key sectors such as urban development, logistics, and emergency services,” Gobind said in a statement.
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While the idea of digital ID has faced public backlash in the past, officials say building trust is the major focus of the MyDigital ID platform. Nik Hisham MyDigital ID CEO Nik Ibrahim emphasized that the system’s design aims to establish a secure, real-time layer of digital trust. “Our main goal is to provide a reliable system that not only makes digital services more accessible but also reinforces Malaysia’s digital sovereignty and data security,” he said. Currently, 45 online platforms, both public and private, have integrated with MyDigital ID. This number is anticipated to increase as the system continues to roll out in phases. However, Hisham stressed that privacy and security are top priorities. He clarified that identity verification is conducted in real time using official government records from the National Registration Department. Importantly, no biometric data is stored on the system.
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Supporting this, Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Khairie Ahmad of Universiti Utara Malaysia noted that MyDigital ID simply replaces the need for a physical MyKad when verifying identity online. “People are already used to showing their MyKad during transactions. MyDigital ID offers a digital version of that process, without storing sensitive data like fingerprints or facial scans,” he said. The 13MP also recommends creating a National Data Commission to oversee how data is stored and used across industry. This independent body will ensure effective data governance, encourage responsible innovation, and increase public trust in digital systems.
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Dr. Khairie also pointed out that Malaysia is already highly connected, with a mobile penetration rate of 121% and nearly 98% of the population having internet access. “That’s why systems like MyDigital ID are becoming increasingly important for maintaining security in an online world,” he said. But technology alone isn’t enough. Dr. Mohd Shahril Nizam Shaharom of the University of Malaya said the success of these digital efforts depends on educating the public in digital skills and online safety. “Our transformation must go beyond just rolling out tools. It must include building awareness of digital ethics, privacy, and cybersecurity among Malaysians,” he said. Additionally, the Digital Ministry is also planning to highlight the 13MP’s initiatives at two major upcoming events, the ASEAN AI Summit from August 12–13 and the Kuala Lumpur Smart City Expo from September 17–19. “The 13th Malaysia Plan represents more than a policy document. It’s a roadmap for Malaysia to become a digital, efficient, and people-focused nation,” Minister Gobind said.
