Info systems databases in real dangers, cautions SAB

Preparations of majority of vital agencies ‘weak’

KUWAIT CITY, Aug 6: In spite of recent directives from the Council of Ministers to government departments directing the ministers and senior officials to change the method of dealing with disasters and emergencies, State Audit Bureau (SAB) has cautioned that information systems databases are in real danger due to weak preparations of the majority of sensitive and important agencies in dealing with disaster.

This information was contained in a report released by the State Audit Bureau. The six-chapter report indicated danger embedded in the administration of several government departments, stressing they are at a “high risk” category. It revealed the dangers could lead to the depletion of public funds, state reserve, fiscal liquidity, increase in deficit, and low credit rating through which the country will most likely lose credibility and trust.

It listed some of the areas of concern to include overseas medical treatment and construction projects whose execution is delayed. It stressed that the majority of government agencies are not ready to handle the effects of disaster on the information technology systems and services provided through it. This is in addition to huge deposits in the domestic financial asset accounts, government bonds and deficit coverage.

It reiterated that danger-related issues are considered a priority in laying down the reform approach, according to observations on its serious implications on public funds.

Expatiating on the aspect concerning effects of disaster on data, it said the majority of sensitive and important departments such as the Ministries of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Health, Education, Public Works, Interior, and Electricity and Water, as well as Kuwait Municipality, Public Authority for Housing Welfare, Kuwait Investment Authority and Public Authority for Civil Information are weak in their preparedness for such disasters.