The People's Majlis has accepted the "Digital Identity Bill," designed to establish and regulate a comprehensive national digital identity system.

Submitted on behalf of the government by PNC MP for the Alifushi constituency Abdul Latheef Abdul Rahman, the bill was accepted with an overwhelming 52 votes in favor out of the 53 members present during today's sitting. Following its acceptance, the bill has been forwarded to the Parliament's Information and Communication Technology Committee for further review and evaluation.

The legislation outlines the guidelines and principles required to build a secure system for identity verification during online transactions. It focuses heavily on maintaining data security when individuals interact digitally with state institutions, legal entities, and other service providers. The jurisdiction of this bill extends to Maldivian citizens residing abroad, all digital identity-related activities conducted within and outside the Maldives under this system, individuals applying for residence or stay permits in the Maldives, and online service providers operating within or associated with the Maldives.

To oversee the operation and development of the system, the bill mandates the formation of a "Digital Identity Technical Advisory Committee." The relevant Minister is empowered to establish this committee within 90 days of the law coming into effect. This committee will comprise a technical official representing the Ministry, a representative for digital services, a representative from the Department of National Registration (DNR), and representatives from any other identity information providers designated under the Act.