When engaging a PDPA consultant, one of the most important considerations is whether they have a proven process that delivers full compliance efficiently and reliably.
Below, we share our own structured four-step approach to delivering full PDPA compliance to organisations in Malaysia within 90-120 days with minimal business disruption.
Step 1: Consultation and needs assessment
We begin by understanding your organisation’s personal data processing activities and current compliance posture. This ensures we identify gaps, strengths, and specific requirements before creating a tailored action plan.
Action items
- evaluate personal data flows across all business functions
- review existing policies and practices against PDPA to spot gaps and strengths
Outcomes
- a tailored action plan addressing specific compliance needs
- a customised roadmap with expectations and timelines for achieving full compliance
Step 2: Onboarding and official DPO registration
We formalise your organisation’s DPO capability by handling all registration requirements, defining responsibilities, and setting up the necessary infrastructure for compliance.
Action items
- execute formal appointment and agreements outlining DPO roles and access
- register with the Personal Data Protection Commission (including documentation and communication channels)
- set up operational infrastructure (official email, secure protocols, system access)
Outcomes
- official DPO appointment within mandated 21-day timeframe
- fully operational DPO function typically established within 14 days
Step 3: Compliance roadmap implementation
We address compliance gaps through a structured approach across eight core areas:
- DPO appointment processes
- data mapping
- policy review and development
- security measures
- consent management systems
- data breach response procedures
- training programmes
- vendor management protocols
This will be done in phases to ensure sustainable practices that don’t overwhelm your team.
Action items
- implement improvements across aforementioned key areas
- provide clear deliverables, timelines, and progress updates over 45–75 days
Outcomes
- step-by-step, manageable compliance implementation
- sustainable framework with measurable success criteria across all core areas
Step 4: Ongoing compliance support and monitoring
We ensure your organisation maintains sustainable PDPA compliance through continuous guidance, regular reviews, and proactive adaptation to regulatory changes.
Action items
- provide day-to-day expert support for compliance questions and issues
- conduct regular compliance reviews and risk assessments
- monitor regulatory changes and enforcement trends, updating programs accordingly
- track key compliance metrics and maintain detailed records
Outcomes
- continuous alignment with evolving PDPA requirements
- documented evidence of compliance efforts for protection during regulatory inquiries
- reduced risk through proactive identification and management of emerging issues
Most organisations achieve full PDPA compliance within 90-120 days.
Enrust ELP with your PDPA compliance needs
With the implementation of the new DPO requirement, organisations that begin now will have adequate time for thorough, sustainable compliance development. Our proven process has successfully guided Malaysian businesses across diverse industries to comprehensive PDPA compliance.
Contact us to schedule your comprehensive needs assessment and begin your compliance journey with confidence.
