malaysiang
BUTTERWORTH: The 2024 Agricultural Census, which concluded on October 10, is anticipated to significantly contribute to the development of Malaysia’s agriculture-based economy. Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli highlighted that the data collected by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) is currently under analysis and will be presented to the government soon.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rafizi noted that the last Agricultural Census was conducted in 2005, leading to two decades of planning based on outdated benchmarks. The minister emphasized the need for updated data, stating that initial findings indicate Malaysia’s actual agricultural capacity is lower than previously reported. This revelation was made during his speech at DOSM’s 75th Diamond Jubilee celebration, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Rafizi underscored DOSM’s efforts to enhance government service delivery by analyzing data at the district level and releasing key statistics at the state assembly level. He stresse
d that elected representatives and officials should now be well-informed about conditions in their areas, with detailed reports available on poverty levels, housing types, and employment status in each district.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin, and Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr. Mohamad Abdul Hamid.
In marking its 75th anniversary, DOSM unveiled new statistics related to living cost indicators, including the Basic Expenditure for Decent Living (PAKW) and the Cost of Living Index. A statement from the Office of the Chief Statistician highlighted that these indicators provide valuable guidance for policy planning and are useful references for the public in financial management.
Furthermore, DOSM has published a report on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by administrative district for 2015-2020. This report aims
to aid in the structured development and evaluation of state and district-level plans, bridging socioeconomic development gaps and stimulating economic activities across regions.
The statement stressed the importance of publishing detailed data at the district level for achieving balanced and accurate planning, accommodating the diverse needs of various government levels as the environment becomes increasingly complex.
