PETALING JAYA: A Big Data system is in the works under a collaboration between the Federal and Sarawak governments involving development programmes in the region, says Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid.

       The Rural Development Minister said the sharing and analysis of Big Data will improve coordination of development programmes in Sarawak.

       "Today, we have signed an agreement between the Rural Development Ministry and the Sarawak Chief Minister regarding data sharing. We are looking at developing a system.

       "I have discussed this with the ministry's secretary-general... we have agreed to develop the Big Data system that will allow us to collaborate with the state... we will share data on electricity supply, water supply, roads, village roads, social amenities, PPRT houses, and repair works, among others," he said in a statement after a courtesy visit to Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia here on Friday (Oct 22).

       Mahdzir added that the system will facilitate coordination between the ministry and state government agencies in implementing development projects in the region.

       The system is also intended to prevent any overlap of work and facilitate monitoring of projects in the implementation stage.

       Mahdzir said his ministry will also conduct a follow-up discussion among its top officers to coordinate development projects.

       He added that the ministry will also consider a proposal by the Chief Minister to coordinate programmes according to specific areas targeted for development.