MELAKA, Sept 12 — The use of current statistics or data is crucial for the country’s governance at all levels so that any policy and measure the government implements can have a strong impact, especially on Malaysians.
Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Mohd Uzir Mahidin said this was why the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) always ensured that the country’s population data, especially in various aspects, including the economy and social demographics, is updated periodically for the use of the government, civil servants, and elected officials.
In addition, current data would also help policymakers and the government formulate policies and determine specific targets to achieve, he said.
“With accurate and up-to-date data, it is quite difficult for missteps to occur, and the data helps determine the best options to solve an issue or problem.
“Current data is also important to ensure that national resources, time, and energy used are not wasted, but instead have an impact on the lives of the people,” Mohd Uzir told reporters after the Melaka-level Malaysia Census 2020 and Socioeconomic 2021 Key Findings Roadshow series here today.
The event was officiated by state Investment, Industry, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Committee chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh in the presence of Melaka DOSM director Mazreha Ya’akub.
Through accurate data, the allocation of funds for the implementation of people-centred initiatives, projects or programmes can be best channelled and improvements can be made in terms of public facilities over time, said the Chief Statistician.
“The current data accumulated by DOSM is the result of engagement initiatives to obtain information or feedback on various issues, including access to facilities, healthcare and other necessities,” Mohd Uzir said, adding that DOSM census data would also assist traders and investors determine the suitability of a certain area to set up businesses.
Meanwhile, he said the provision of census data at the level of parliamentary and state constituencies had enabled MPs and state assemblymen to study the needs of residents in their constituencies.
“In total, we have 222 parliamentary and 600 state constituencies in Malaysia, and this is the first time in our country’s history that we are providing related census data,” Mohd Uzir said.
— Bernama
