Malaysia consolidates IT systems, aims to save RM7bn annually

The Malaysian government is working to consolidate its information technology systems, including government databases and websites, according to Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli. The current system costs approximately RM7 billion (US$1.7 billion) annually to maintain. The centralised database initiative aims to bring together 297 separate databases, with government ministries and agencies expressing support for the approach. Rafizi also mentioned plans to create a “single window” for digital industry players and investors to access government services. The minister suggested that the government should reduce its reliance on private sector tech companies for procurement contracts in favour of a “GovTech” approach, focusing on frontend systems and application programming interfaces (APIs).