Checking With The DNA Database.

With the passing of the DNA Identification Act police investigations on the background of convicts would be eased by checks with Chemistry Department's DNA database.

"With this system, once a suspect is arrested we can straightaway check on the person's background and profile, if he has previous convictions," said Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Kong Cho Ha. "However, we have to wait for the passing of the DNA Identification Act because we must have an Act to refer to, as this matter involves human rights," he added.

Malacca Chemistry Department deputy director-general (operations) Datin Maharam Jusoh said the system would cost RM13mil to develop and would be accessible from the main office besides the Kuching and Penang branches. "A total of RM10mil will be allocated in the first phase for the three offices and another RM3mil for the police force. The final draft of the proposal has already been submitted to the Attorney-General," said Maharam.

Kong lauded the Chemistry Department operating according to international standards, recognized by many international organisations. To the staff he said "We are not in the enforcement line we are in the service line and our biggest customers are the police force, the Health Ministry, Customs Department, Department of Environment and Domestic Trade offices. The department is the one which tests samples in criminal cases for drugs, murder and rape and finds evidence or testifies in court when the need arises. We uphold justice and the rule of law so our role is very important."

The Fallout of Patents

Patents in products and processes were a bane for the impoverished, as the pricing was from necessary goods and services which prevented them from producing these more cheaply. Low income countries solved the problem by formulating Intellectual Property laws which was not tightly enforced. This translated into piracy of movies, records or CDs besides easily counterfeiting medical drugs. As scientific research and development was lagging in the developing World due to lack of trained personnel and infrastructure, patents were not a priority due to health concerns which are now delayed due to costs. When these countries develop their own inventions, it is proof of them moving up the value chain. In Malaysia's case IP protection is heavy in the developed entertainment industry.

The legal infrastructure in the West, protecting discoveries from theft but providing opportunities...