BINTULU – The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) Sarawak has continued Phase 1 fieldwork for the 2026 Economic Census (BE 2026), with enumerators from the Bintulu Statistics Office conducting surveys at selected community locations on 20 January 2026.
The fieldwork was conducted by MyStep personnel assigned to the census, who visited Sebiew Fish Market and the Bintulu Night Market to gather crucial economic information. These locations were chosen as active centres of trade and community life, representing the daily rhythm of the local economy.
The Economic Census is Malaysia’s most extensive statistical initiative, conducted once every five years. It gathers data from businesses across all sectors, including retail, services, agriculture, and manufacturing. The 2026 census will take place from January to October, providing policymakers with essential insights into business performance, employment trends, and the contributions of different sectors to the economy.
During the fieldwork, DOSM officers engaged directly with traders and business owners, collecting data on their operations, workforce size, and financial activities. This grassroots approach ensures that the realities of small traders and local entrepreneurs are represented alongside those of larger enterprises, offering a comprehensive picture of Malaysia’s economic ecosystem.
Officials emphasised that the census is more than just a statistical task—it serves as the foundation for evidence-based policymaking. Reliable data allows the government to design strategies that strengthen economic resilience, empower local businesses, and promote sustainable growth.
Local communities welcomed the effort, noting that accurate statistics are vital for improving livelihoods and guiding development. DOSM reiterated its message that “Data is the people’s economic pulse,” highlighting the importance of statistics in shaping inclusive and forward-looking policies.
The Bintulu fieldwork is part of DOSM Sarawak’s broader effort to collect economic data across the state, with similar activities planned in other districts. The department urged all businesses to cooperate fully with enumerators to ensure the success of BE 2026.
As Malaysia moves towards a digital and knowledge-based economy, the census will play an important role in shaping strategies for innovation, competitiveness, and resilience. The findings will form the groundwork for long-term planning, keeping Sarawak and Malaysia aligned with their sustainable development goals.
