Public Acceptance on the Benefits and Risks of DNA Profile Storage in Forensic DNA Databases: A Lesson from Malaysia

Abstract

In December 2015, the Forensic DNA Databank of Malaysia (FDDM) was formally established to help in crime prevention and justice. Government activities are boosting public awareness, yet some misconceptions and concerns remain about the collection, storage, and use of Forensic DNA databases. The study's aim is to raise awareness about the benefits and risks of profile storage in forensic DNA data banks. A small number of public informants were selected using the qualitative technique. These included ten public informants and the study employs thematic analysis, and the results are somewhat unexpected. The findings of Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) show that informants' understanding of the benefits and risk of storing DNA profiles in forensic DNA data banks remains low. If the public is unclear and has limited understanding of the benefits and risks involved, it can have an impact on public health in general, and informants continue to blame practitioners in the relevant authorities for a lack of information. It raises the question of how the Malaysian forensic DNA database can be considered sustainable by the public. In recommendations, the government can collaborate with all key government agencies, including the judicial system, the attorney general's office, and the department of chemistry, to raise public acceptance of the benefits and risks of preserving DNA profiles in forensics DNA databanks. Future research is expected to involve additional stakeholders and use a variety of methodological approaches to cover a broader scope.