MINISTRY TO UNDERTAKE STUDY OF COMMMUNICATIONS SECTOR

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 (Bernama)-- The Ministry of Information,
Communications, Culture and Arts is currently contemplating a comprehensive study of the commmunications sector to identify and establish new strategic approaches for possible adoption and implementation during the 10th Malaysia Plan.

Its Minister, Dr Rais Yatim said the proposed study would involve the
assessment and updating of existing policies, regulatory and legislative
approaches in terms of effectiveness as well as relevance for the future
development of the sector.

Rais said the communications sector would continue to benefit from the
policy based on providing a conducive environment for internationally and
regionally oriented activities.

"There is a significant challenge that lies ahead to establish
forward-looking strategic policies and performance of this sector over the next
developmental phases," he said in his keynote address at the Asia
Telecommunications Forum here Thursday.

Rais said the government acknowledged that conducting transactions through
electronic means, promises greater economic and social benefits for everyone.

"To boost confidence among users in the conduct of electronic transactions,
existing efforts in providing for the most conducive legal and regulatory
environment, will continue," he added.

Rais said the Personal Protection Bill, poised to undergo passage in
Parliament following the Cabinet's nod this week, will provide further assurance
of secrecy and integrity in the collection, processing and utilisation of all
personal data transmitted through the electronic network.

"Other existing laws will also be examined, reviewed and updated where
necessary, to ensure a conducive legal and regulatory atmosphere prevails,"
he highlighted.
-- BERNAMA