GEORGE TOWN: THE Statistics Department marked its 75th anniversary this year with a vibrant celebration that highlighted its crucial role in shaping the country's development.
The diamond jubilee celebration was not just a reflection on the past, but a clarion call for the future, emphasising the importance of statistics in public policy, societal wellbeing and national prosperity.
Established in 1949, the Statistics Department has consistently been a cornerstone for data-driven decision-making in Malaysia.
It has evolved into a key player in providing official statistical reports that underpin policy planning and gauge national progress.
Today, it boasts an impressive portfolio of 571 publications, including monthly, quarterly and annual reports, alongside numerous ad hoc analyses.
These publications serve as critical references for both the government and the private sector, driving strategic planning and programme implementation.
At the heart of the jubilee celebration was a commitment to enhancing public awareness about the value of statistics.
The department's mission transcends mere data collection — it is about building a foundation for informed governance and sustainable development.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, during the opening ceremony of the National Statistics Day celebration and the diamond jubilee at the PICCA Convention Centre on Saturday, underscored the indispensable role of credible data in shaping national strategies.
He said: "The pulse of the people and the nation depends on our efficiency and integrity in producing credible data."
This sentiment encapsulates the essence of the Statistics Department's work — transforming raw data into actionable insights.
One of the most noteworthy initiatives launched is the Central Database Hub (Padu).
Developed in collaboration with the Economy Ministry and the National Digital Department, Padu aims to consolidate individual and household profiles into a comprehensive, secure repository.
This innovation not only streamlines data collection and analysis, but also enhances public service delivery, aligning with the government's objectives for more efficient and transparent administration.
The anniversary saw the introduction of new statistical indexes related to living costs, such as the Basic Expenditure of Decent Living and the Cost of Living index.
These indicators are vital for guiding policy formulation and helping the public navigate financial decisions.
Furthermore, the department's groundbreaking publication of gross domestic product reports at the administrative district level from 2015 to 2020 marks a significant stride towards localised economic planning.
This approach is intended to bridge socio-economic gaps and foster regional development.
In a world where data complexity continues to grow, the need for nuanced understanding at all levels — state, district and even community — has never been more critical.
The Statistics Department's commitment to granular data not only enhances the accuracy of planning, but also democratises access to information, empowering local governments to address specific regional challenges effectively.
Throughout the years, the department's emphasis on digital transformation has been unmistakable.
Initiatives such as Statistics Big Data Analytics and Statistics Data Warehouse are reshaping how data is managed and disseminated.
With platforms like OpenDOSM and eStatistik, the department is not just a statistical authority, but a beacon of data accessibility, ensuring that information is available to a broader audience — from policymakers to the general public.
Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli highlighted the significance of the Statistics Department's advancements, noting its elevation to new heights through strategic collaborations.
"Data is now not only used by policymakers, it is also widely utilised by the public," he said, highlighting a transformational shift towards transparency and engagement.
As Malaysia navigates an increasingly complex socio-economic landscape, the role of statistics becomes ever more vital.
The Statistic Department stands as a testament to the power of data in guiding national development and enhancing the quality of life for all Malaysians.
It not only charts the course for national policy, but also champions the wellbeing of society as a whole, embodying the aspirations of Malaysia's Madani vision for a prosperous future.
The jubilee festivities included a series of community-centric events designed to foster understanding and appreciation of statistics among Malaysians.
Activities ranged from traditional sports and performances to educational forums and competitions, engaging various demographic groups across the country.
This inclusive approach aims to cultivate a culture where data literacy becomes a shared value, contributing to a well-informed citizenry.
As Malaysia prepares to chair Asean next year, Anwar expressed hope that the country would showcase its statistical achievements on the international stage.
He urged the Statistics Department to continue striving for excellence, with a vision of positioning Malaysia as a regional leader in statistical integrity and innovation.