Mykad Can Slash Red Tape In Aid Distribution Says Fomca

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According to JPN, the MyKad introduced in 2001 can be quickly and securely accessed to carry out various electronic transactions. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA: The use of the MyKad has proven useful in reducing bureaucracy and ensuring that social aid can be distributed to the people more effectively, says the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca).
Fomca CEO T Saravanan said the identity card equipped with a smart chip can reduce the processes applicants have to go through to apply for welfare aid, including the submission of physical documents.
He cited how recipients of Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) need only furnish the details in their MyKad for their applications to be processed.
“Aid can then be channelled directly into the bank accounts of the recipients, making the process more efficient while reducing the risk of delays and saving costs for the government.

“This can ensure transparency, efficiency as well as accuracy in the distribution of aid to those actually in need, and curb leakages,” he told FMT.
According to the national registration department (JPN), the MyKad introduced in 2001 can be quickly and securely accessed to carry out various electronic transactions, from identity verification to payments.
Its safety features include authentication via symmetric cryptographic keys as well as a multi-layered operating system with a firewall.
Saravanan suggested that the MyKad could be used in the government’s targeted RON95 petrol subsidy mechanism, but urged Putrajaya to set up a physical help centre and hotline to assist target groups.
“Constant monitoring and periodical evaluations of the effectiveness (of the targeted subsidy mechanism) must also be held,” he said.
“A report on the data of recipients as well as the impact of the aid on target groups should also be published to improve government accountability.
“This can identify weaknesses in the system and get them fixed promptly.”
For STR recipient Izhar Thamrin, the use of his MyKad made it easy for him to access the cash aid, which he uses to foot his expenses for groceries.
“It’s really easy (to apply) because it only needs my MyKad,” said the 32-year-old, expressing hope that the STR amount could be increased in the future to account for the rise in cost of living. - FMT

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