Data protection steams into Singapore port

It's been a long time coming but the end is near--yesterday, the Singapore government announced its public consultation for the country's data protection regime.

Coming from a point where none existed (at least generally), the legislation has the potential of cutting across all sectors.

For privacy lawyers, the same issues arise--the definitions, the collection, use and retention--and the consultation paper calls for feedback on these issues.

A few other eye-catching points: government use is not covered (as there is already internal procedures in place), a 1-2 year transitional period, and the proposed data protection commission has powers to order fines up to S$1 million.

Check it out--consultation closes on Oct. 25.