Reason being; attended my graduation in Scotland. Nevertheless, I have done some general research and observation on RFID in Malaysia lately. I have some interesting development to share with (provided that the materials that I am awaiting would be acceptable for online dissemination). On another note, I am keen to participate and present in the coming BILETA 2008. I would be writing on RFID. The abstract sounds as follows:-
RFID; IS PRIVACY STILL A MAJOR ISSUE IN MALAYSIA?
Noriswadi Ismail LLM (Information Technology & Telecommunications Law) Strathclyde
Group General Counsel/Company Secretary
Vice President, Corporate Services
HeiTech Padu Berhad, Malaysia
Abstract:
Radio Frequency Identification Technology (RFID) is no more a hype. It is now being deployed and tested in various industries throughout the world. The absence of a specific data protection and privacy legislation has led to many unsolved issues. Even though the success of RFID deployment encourages the growth and maturity of an ubiquitous society, it is claimed however, inhibits privacy. This debate has been the major cornerstone of civil liberties. Limited dissemination on RFID is also another key issue. Due to these scenarios, this paper shall explore the present issues that have not been unveiled, argued and debated openly in Malaysia. Three (3) reasons have been outlined. Firstly, the delay of data protection legislation, which in a way, contributes to the issue. Whilst the delay is being regarded as a ‘genuine’ and not a politically motivated one, however, it has taken quite some time for Malaysia to await its outcome and implementation. Secondly, the non-existence of such a regulatory and technical standard of RFID deployment has resulted to diversified approaches and techniques in mitigating data and privacy. This has led to many ICT and RFID middleware companies; being the service provider to deploy RFID with less pre-emptive assessment on data and privacy. Thirdly, the limited dissemination on RFID and data protection knowledge has also contributed to the issue. Whilst endless effort has taken place via the international foray, however, the dissemination reach is far beyond than the desired expectation. In outlining these reasons and issues pedantically, this paper has cross referred to the strategic position and consultation initiated by the European Union, being the general benchmark and balanced reasoning for Malaysia’s potential RFID roadmap.
