A bill to establish a legal framework for the collection, processing and use of personal information has been introduced in parliament on behalf of the government.

The Personal Data Protection Bill, submitted by PNC Henveiru West MP Ali Ibrahim, sets out to define the rights of individuals over their personal data, as well as the responsibilities of those who collect and use it.

The bill was taken up for its first reading in parliament today.

Among its key provisions are regulations governing the transfer of personal data to foreign countries, international organizations and other cross-border entities. It also outlines procedures for handling breaches of confidentiality, including data leaks.

The proposed law further provides for the establishment of a Privacy Commissioner to oversee enforcement.

According to the bill, the commissioner would be responsible for ensuring compliance with data protection rules, safeguarding personal information, and advising public institutions in the event of data breaches.

The office would also be empowered to issue regulations and standards governing the collection, storage and use of personal data as defined under the law.