Govt must explain Datasonic acquisition U-turn, says PKR MP

Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung has called on the government to explain the decision not to acquire Datasonic Technologies Sdn Bhd. The firm, which supplies passports and national identity cards, was asked to submit an indicative price for a potential acquisition.

Lee Chean Chung, representing Petaling Jaya, expressed his concern over the inconsistency in the government's positions. He urged the finance ministry to clarify whether they had, during a meeting on July 24, asked Datasonic or its parent company NexG Bhd for an indicative offer. He questioned whether the request was made under proper authority and by which department or official.

NexG, in a statement on August 21, mentioned the government was considering acquiring Datasonic, valuing the firm at RM7.5 billion. The ministry had reportedly asked for an indicative price in July. However, the next day, the National Security Council (MKN) announced the government would not acquire Datasonic and would explore ways to ensure identity security at a reasonable cost.

Lee emphasized that acquiring a listed company is a significant matter that should not be treated lightly. He demanded the ministry provide clear explanations regarding the request for the indicative price, the basis and authority of the request, and the decision-making process behind the government's final stance.