Tariq Malik, former chairman of National Database and Registration Authority, has been named among the world’s top 25 identity leaders by Okta, a leading cloud-based Identity and Access Management platform.
According to Okta, the honorees were selected for their contributions to software innovation, evolving global standards, and implementing secure digital systems that enable seamless transactions.
Their work addresses emerging challenges such as verifying advanced AI systems operating autonomously and countering sophisticated AI-generated fraud that threatens biometric security.
وطن کی مٹی گواہ رھنا!
وطن کی مٹی عظیم ہے تو
عظیم تر ہم بنا رہے ہیں۔پاکستان زندہ باد۔ 🇵🇰 #PakistanZindabad #Pakistan pic.twitter.com/T2CzY5plUf
— Tariq Malik ™ (@ReplyTariq) May 4, 2026
In its report, 2026 The Identity 25, Okta highlighted Malik’s 25-year career advising governments and international institutions on digital identity and civil registration systems that promote inclusion and economic development.
During his tenure at NADRA, he led one of the largest biometric registration drives globally, enrolling over 145 million citizens. These systems supported social protection initiatives, including programs for women, displaced populations, and anti-corruption efforts.
Malik stepped down as NADRA chairman in 2023 after serving two terms, the first ending in 2013.
