FIRST, they edge up the app’s value to RM350 million.

Then, eventually, they will sell the entire programme back to the government.

And why must the government buy it? Simple!

1. The government is not the owner and thus has no legal rights over it.

2. The data is too valuable for anybody. And as aptly said by the Health Ministry, the data is with the government and not a third party.

3. In view of point 2, the government will have no choice but to buy into the entire project.

4. The current two feuding parties seem to have come to an amicable decision, and that one pays the other a set amount.

5. The app will become more indispensable as international borders open and travelling becomes unhindered. It is mandatory for each tourist to download the app. Each download may have to be paid for. And that will generate immense income for the owner.

6. The app is nothing short of an international passport. Even Malaysians may, in the near future, be charged to maintain the certificate.

7. The government will say that due to national security, it must take full ownership of it, not partial. – March 28, 2022.

* Narinder Pal reads The Malaysian Insight.