PADU Expansion: Who Needs to Register and What It Means for You
TLDR:
- PADU expansion announced to be completed by end of April 2026
- Target: reach 15 million registrations
- Currently at 13 million, needs additional 2 million
- Focus on informal workers and self-employed
- Affects Malaysian citizens in the targeted demographic
PADU’s Current Status
The Padu (Platform Data Ekonomi) system is approaching its next major milestone with the expansion targeted to be completed by the end of April 2026. The government aims to reach 15 million registrations, up from the current 13 million.
PADU is the government’s centralised data platform designed to create a comprehensive database for better policy targeting. The system plays a crucial role in ensuring government assistance reaches those who need it most.
Who Needs to Register
The focus of the expansion is on informal workers and self-employed Malaysians. Categories include freelancers, gig economy workers, small business owners without formal employment, and any Malaysian citizen who generates income outside of formal employment structures.
The government has been working with various agencies and associations to reach these groups. Partnerships with platforms like Grab have helped reach drivers and delivery riders.
How to Register
PADU registration can be completed online at the official PADU portal. The process requires basic information including IC number, basic employment details, and household information.
Why PADU Matters
PADU represents the government’s effort to modernise how it targets assistance. Rather than using broad criteria that can result in benefits going to those who don’t need them, PADU aims to create a detailed picture of each household’s economic situation.
Our Take
The PADU expansion is an important step in the government’s data modernisation efforts. Reaching 15 million registrations will give policymakers better information for targeting assistance.
For Malaysian citizens, particularly those in informal employment, registering with PADU is in your interest.
