Kuala Lampur, Sept. 23 -- The proposed DNA database by the National Registration Department (NRD) is a good move to counter the illegal issuance of MyKad to foreigners but authorities must consider individual privacy rights, said criminologist P. Sundramoorthy.

Sundramoorthy, of Universiti Sains Malaysia, described the proposal as a very proactive and progressive suggestion for quashing syndicates responsible for such offences, but said human rights activists will likely express privacy concerns.

"But as a criminologist, I would say that we have to give a little bit of our liberty for the sake of public safety.

"When you talk about public safety, a DNA database will invade your privacy. You cannot deny that but it gives more good than ...