Recently, the Prime Minister has issued a directive that all aspects of the government's digital services be developed internally. Let’s take a closer look at what the PMX ordered.
For your information, this move is in an effort to ensure data security and ensure talent development in civil servants, as well as direct access to source code. This will be coordinated through the National Digital Department. Thanks to this directive, we may also see more projects developed internally, ensuring that the government has full access to source code, databases, etc.
Why is the government moving digital projects in-house?
The move is intended to give the government greater control over critical digital infrastructure and services. By developing systems internally, government agencies can maintain direct access to source code, improve oversight of digital projects, and reduce reliance on external vendors.
Fahmi Fadzil, the government spokesperson, said the decision also considers data security and sovereignty concerns. Having direct control over the development process could help ensure that sensitive government data remains under government oversight while strengthening cybersecurity measures across public-sector platforms.
Another key objective is talent development. The initiative is expected to help build technical expertise among civil servants and create a stronger pool of digital talent within the public sector.
Part of Malaysia's broader digitalisation plans
The directive aligns with the government's wider push to accelerate digital transformation across Malaysia's public sector. Earlier this year, the government reiterated its goal of increasing online government services and expanding digitalisation efforts through the National Digital Department. The Digital Ministry previously reported that end-to-end online government service delivery had reached 80% and is targeting 95% by 2030.
From a tech industry perspective, the move could encourage greater investment in digital skills and software development within government agencies. However, if everything is developed internally, then wouldn't we still end up with the rather poorly designed government websites that we have now, but perhaps with some AI?
What do you think about the government's decision to develop all digital services in-house? Could this improve security and efficiency, or would a hybrid approach involving private-sector expertise work better? Personally, we feel it's a great idea, but the execution certainly needs more polishing.
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