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BACKGROUND Digital contact tracing is a method of tracing contact relying on tracking systems using artificial intelligence (AI) as an epidemic prevention solution for the COVID-19 pandemic. Normally it relies on mobile devices using Bluetooth, Quick Response (QR) code, or Global Positioning System (GPS) technologies OBJECTIVE This review compares the digital contact tracing (DCT) systems that are used in Malaysia, New Zealand and China. METHODS Data sources were from existing electronic articles, newspapers, press releases, government documents, reports, and web pages that are available online RESULTS There are five mobile applications (app) and one Bluetooth device in used by these countries; Malaysia uses MySejahtera app and MyTrace app, New Zealand uses NZ CovidTrace and Bluetooth COVIDCard, China uses a Health Code app that is available in WeChat and Alipay. However, Malaysia has suspended the MyTrace app, while New Zealand is awaiting the government’s decision on more general adoption of the COVIDCard. All apps are available via download through Apple store, Google Play and App Gallery, except for the NZ COVID tracer is not supported by App Gallery that operates Huawei devices. All 3 countries utilises the QR code as the main DCT with additional extra features. However, the number of users could not be determined as certain official platform such as the App Store does not provide such data. But, based on other available databases; MySejahtera has recorded around 74.9% users in Malaysia as at December 2020, NZ CovidTrace logged around 55.1% as at 19th April 2021, and Alipay tracked around 64.3% as at early 2021. CONCLUSIONS Bluetooth component and framework that is added to the NZ COVID Trace could apply to both MySejahtera and Health Code to improve their existing DCT system to assist in identification of close proximity. Conversely, dissimilarities in social, economic, political and cultural aspect could differentiate the outcome of several public health interventions. |
