KUALA LUMPUR – The ease of retrieving personal data through the MyJPJ app warrants concern of sensitive information leaks, warned former transport minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong (Ayer Hitam-BN).
His criticism, aimed at Transport Minister Anthony Loke (Seremban-PH), pointed out that the single criterion of using one’s MyKad identity number to access MyJPJ is “unsafe”.
“Recently, the Transport Ministry announced the MyJPJ app. I want to show that all the private data of the ministers here, they have used (it).
“Last Friday, he (Loke) said we have e-LKM and e-LMM (digital road tax and driver’s licences) on the app. However, only one detail (is needed to access MyJPJ). If you know the IC number, all data will be shown.
“I can show how the leak could take place. If it happens, 33 million data will be accessible,” he said today when debating the royal address in Dewan Rakyat here today.
With about 16 million driver’s licences being accessible with MyKad numbers, Wee said the app’s system is currently unsafe.
He added that he disagreed with the app’s implementation during his tenure as transport minister, and advised the current government to take immediate action on this matter.
Regarding an additional requirement by Loke where users must key in a unique alphanumeric identifier number from the back of their driver’s licence to register, Wee rebutted that such measures cannot be done diminutively.
“You have to do it holistically involving the systems, computer software, and whether it has the agreement from police. It requires meticulous planning,” he said.
Nonetheless, Wee reiterated that the possibility of data exposure is careless, especially after the communications and digital minister (Fahmi Fadzil) said it has been through cybersecurity filtering.
“That is why I said it needs serious consideration and action from the government, as it involves the Personal Data Protection Act 2010,” he added.
Previously, Loke had announced that Malaysians are no longer required to display their road tax stickers on their private vehicles, encouraging motorists to download MyJPJ or visit the department’s public portal to view their motor vehicle and driving licences. – The Vibes, February 15, 2023