Personal Data Protection Bill Submitted to Parliament

A government-backed Personal Data Protection Bill was submitted to Parliament yesterday, seeking to establish a comprehensive legal framework governing the collection, processing and use of personal data in the Maldives.

The bill was submitted by West Henveiru MP Ali Ibrahim and is aimed at strengthening protections for individuals whose personal information is collected and processed.

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According to the proposed legislation, the law would define the responsibilities of data processors and establish regulations governing the handling of sensitive information and the transfer of data to foreign entities. The bill also outlines the rights of data subjects and introduces procedures for responding to data breaches and leaks.

The legislation proposes the establishment of a Privacy Commissioner with powers to receive complaints, conduct investigations and take enforcement action where necessary.

The bill states that its primary purpose is to protect the rights of individuals whose data is being used while regulating parties responsible for processing such information. It also seeks to introduce broader standards for data processing and protocols for handling data-related incidents.

MP Ali Ibrahim said the legislation would introduce detailed compliance obligations for data controllers and processors, including requirements related to record-keeping and operational procedures. In certain cases, organisations would also be required to appoint dedicated Data Protection Officers.

The bill further proposes assigning the functions of the Privacy Commissioner to the Information Commissioner’s Office established under the Right to Information Act, with expanded legal authority to enforce the new legislation.

Aligned with international data protection standards, the proposed law also includes strict conditions governing the transfer of personal data to foreign countries and international organisations.

The government has described the bill as an important step towards strengthening the Maldives’ digital economy while improving the protection of citizens’ personal privacy.