Covid-19 pandemic policies in Malaysia and the issues of privacy and data protection

Abstract

COVID-19 pandemic has drastically altered civilization, and it will require a long-term historical perspective to fully comprehend its effects. It is obvious that current advances, whether or not they concern privacy and tech, will have an impact on the way society develops in the future. The data-driven initiatives created in response to COVID-19 have already changed how society engages with technology and privacy ideas, from widespread public health testing to individual communication tools. Personal data is classified as one of the most valuable and desirable commodities, especially in the era of digitization and the emergence of modem technologies. In view of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis and policy measures taken in Malaysia, there is need to protect individual's privacy and personal data. This research aims to study and analyse the privacy and data protection implications of COVID-19 pandemic laws and policies in Malaysia between 2020 and 2022. The research relies on the analytical approach to study relevant legislation. Descriptive assessment method was used to assess the current laws and policies on the protection of personal data. The qualitative and doctrinal method was used in surveying and analysing the literature. The study noted that although there are laws on privacy and personal data protection in Malaysia, there is still room to improve the laws to address loopholes and challenges that emerged during COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the research proposes some suggestions and recommendations in order to improve the Malaysian legislation and bring it in line with international standards.