Malaysia

Ministry launches Economic Census 2026 to strengthen data-driven policymaking

Minister highlights the critical role of accurate statistics in driving inclusive and resilient growth

Updated 6 months ago · Published on 23 Feb 2026 4:38PM

Ministry launches Economic Census 2026 to strengthen data-driven policymaking
Accurate and timely economic data is essential for evidence-based policymaking, strategic planning, and assessing the effectiveness of government interventions, Akmal stresses - February 23, 2026

PUTRAJAYA today officially launched the Economic Census 2026, a national initiative aimed at providing a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the country’s economic landscape.

Minister of Economy Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the census was not merely for data collection, but as a strategic compass to ensure inclusive, resilient, and sustainable economic growth in line with Malaysia MADANI’s aspirations.

He said, Malaysia’s economy performed strongly in the latter half of 2025, with GDP surging to 6.3% in the fourth quarter compared to 5.4% in the previous quarter.

Overall growth for 2025 reached 5.2%, exceeding the initial target of 4.0%–4.8%, despite global uncertainties.

“The country’s economic momentum is now on firmer ground. Our priority is to ensure this growth remains productive, sustainable and beneficial to the rakyat,” he said, noting that RMK13 will provide the primary framework for achieving higher, stable, and inclusive growth.

The Minister emphasised that strong statistics are critical in navigating an increasingly complex global environment marked by geopolitical shifts, supply chain restructuring, inflationary pressures, rapid digitalisation, and the transition to a future-oriented economy.

Accurate and timely economic data, he stressed, is essential for evidence-based policymaking, strategic planning, and assessing the effectiveness of government interventions.

The Economic Census 2026, known as BE 2026, represents the sixth iteration since its inception in 2001 and covers five major sectors: agriculture, construction, manufacturing, mining and quarrying, and services.

BE 2026 is designed to produce high-quality statistics to support national development agendas, including RMK13, digital transformation initiatives, sustainable development goals, and Malaysia MADANI’s inclusive and resilient economic framework. - February 23, 2026

Spotlight

Malaysia

Tuanku Muhriz urges Malaysians to uphold Rukun Negara, strengthen unity

Malaysia

PM to bring Felda forensic audit proposal to Cabinet

Malaysia

Malaysia tightens Thailand border security after wave of southern attacks

Malaysia

Mohd Amar’s three-year remark puts PAS’ Kelantan record under spotlight

Malaysia

KPF’s Al-Rawda exposure raises fresh questions over RM119.38 million

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Trump’s North Korea gamble deepens Asia’s doubts over US alliances

Malaysia

Rayer denies involvement in 'Maha Kali Red Rally', claims name and photo misused

Business

Nation’s economic outlook strengthens as leading index signals continued growth

You may be interested

Malaysia

Motoring influencer among eight remanded over viral illegal racing video

Malaysia

20 China nationals remanded over suspected telegram love scam syndicate in Penang

Malaysia

Mohd Amar’s three-year remark puts PAS’ Kelantan record under spotlight

Malaysia

Nine illegal immigrants still at large after Tanah Merah detention depot escape

Malaysia

PH puts Amirudin in charge of Melaka seat talks with BN

Malaysia

PN Chief signals Melaka election could be held within two months

Malaysia

Another roller coaster incident? Visitors seen walking along track at Genting Highlands (video)

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

Dr M: Minor offenders punished, those who steal millions freed, given high positions