THE Dewan Rakyat today passed the Statistics Bill 2026, marking a major reform in the modernisation of Malaysia’s National Statistical System and replacing the Statistics Act 1965 [Act 415], which has governed the country’s statistical framework for more than six decades.
The Ministry of Economy said the new legislation was necessary to ensure Malaysia’s statistical system remains relevant amid changing economic and social structures, rapid digital transformation and growing demand for accurate, timely and trusted official data.
Economy Minister Akmal Mohd Nasir said the Bill represented more than a legislative update, as it would strengthen Malaysia’s ability to produce coordinated, high-quality and reliable statistics.
"The Statistics Bill 2026 is more than a legislative update. It strengthens Malaysia’s capacity to produce coordinated, high-quality and trusted official statistics. Good data must translate into better-targeted policies, more effective public services and tangible benefits for the people," he said.
The Bill, comprising 22 clauses, outlines the functions of the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), the establishment of the National Statistics Council, mechanisms for data collection and requests, publication and communication of statistics, confidentiality protections, regulatory powers and the repeal of the Statistics Act 1965.
Under the new framework, DOSM will serve as the central coordinator for official statistics production and act as the national repository for data and statistical information.
The Ministry stressed that the Bill would not change or replace the existing responsibilities of ministries and government agencies.
Each ministry and agency will continue to own its administrative data, manage its respective areas of expertise and remain the lead authority for statistics within its sector.
DOSM’s enhanced coordinating role is intended to ensure data from various sources can be utilised in a more systematic, integrated and consistent manner for producing official statistics.
The government expects improved use of administrative data to reduce duplication in data collection, ease reporting burdens on respondents and generate savings in terms of cost, time and resources.
The legislation also maintains strict safeguards on data protection and confidentiality.
Information collected from individuals, households or establishments for statistical purposes cannot be disclosed or used for other purposes except where permitted by law.
The Ministry said the Statistics Bill 2026 was developed following a policy review initiated in 2016, supported by seven rounds of stakeholder engagement involving ministries, government departments, state governments, local authorities, academic institutions, industry representatives and private sector stakeholders.
The formulation of the Bill also considered international statistical standards, global best practices and developments in the modern data ecosystem.
The passage of the legislation underscores the government’s commitment to building a more coordinated, trusted and responsive National Statistical System, while strengthening evidence-based policymaking, public service delivery and long-term national development planning. - July 16, 2026
