Kerajaan tak ambil alih pembekal pasport Datasonic

Malaysia will not assume control of identity document and passport manufacturer Datasonic Technologies Sdn Bhd (DTSB), according to the Majlis Keselamatan Negara (MKN). The announcement comes in the wake of reports that the Ministry of Finance is considering a proposal for DTSB's takeover, with an initial valuation of RM7.5 billion. The MKN stated that the government's efforts to maintain national security and citizens' identity integrity are achieved through legislative, financial, administrative, and security frameworks.

Following the media report on the takeover proposal for DTSB, which provides services for Malaysian citizens' identity, the government has decided not to take over the company, based on a statement. The government consistently explores and investigates the best and proactive strategies to achieve national security and identity integrity goals, emphasizing the best value for every ringgit spent.

During NexG Bhd's shareholder presentation to Bursa Malaysia yesterday, the company's parent company said its representatives were asked in a July meeting with the Ministry of Finance to provide an indicative price for the potential takeover. NexG said the RM7.5 billion indicative value was based on an internal assessment by its management and not a free, binding valuation or firm offer.

Any transaction would still be subject to further discussions and consultations among the relevant parties and/or independent valuation, if appropriate. DTSB was awarded two six-year contracts worth around RM2.5 billion to supply Malaysian passports and MyKad until 2032.