Book covering Do-Not-Call registry launched

SINGAPORE - A book to help the public understand the recent Do-Not-Call (DNC) registry and other issues was launched by the Singapore Academy of Law on Wednesday.

The book, titled Data Protection Law In Singapore - Privacy And Sovereignty In An Interconnected World, explains the reasons behind the country's new Personal Data Protection Act.

The Act aims to protect personal information from being stolen or indiscriminately collected and used for marketing.

A key part of the legislation, which was passed in Parliament in October two years ago, is the DNC registry. Rolled out in January, the registry allows individuals to block telemarketing calls, SMS and faxes. In most cases, companies are also not allowed to market to any registered phone number without getting consent.

The book includes information on how firms can comply with current DNC rules, and those which will kick in on July 2 on the collection, use and disclosure of personal information.

Other topics covered in the book, which has been written by lawyers and law academics, include enforcement challenges and how the law here compares with legislation in other countries.

A copy of the Act and the parliamentary speeches during the second reading of the Bill have also been included to give readers a better understanding of Act.

Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, Minister for Communications and Information, said that the book's launch was "timely".

Even as the Personal Data Protection Commission works to prepare organisations and the public for the full implementation of the Act, he said, "it is also important to reflect upon the issues surrounding data protection, in order to fully appreciate the mechanics of the Act".

The book is available at all major bookstores for $64.20. Orders can also be placed at the e-Bookshop via the Singapore Academy of Law website, www.sal.org.sg

itham@sph.com.sg

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