LIMBANG – The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) Sarawak has conducted the Phase 1 of the 2026 Economic Census (BE 2026) in Limbang, where officers from the Limbang Statistics Office conducted surveys at Medan Selera, Limbang on 20 January 2026.
Held every five years, the Economic Census is a nationwide effort to gather comprehensive information about Malaysia’s economic activities. The 2026 edition will run from January to October, covering all business sectors including retail, services, manufacturing, and agriculture.
During the fieldwork, DOSM officers met with traders and business owners to collect data on their operations, workforce, and finances. The aim is to understand the real pulse of Malaysia’s grassroots economy, providing policymakers with accurate insights into the challenges and realities faced by enterprises.
Officials explained that the data will be vital in shaping national policies, guiding economic development, and enhancing Malaysia’s resilience amid global challenges. By documenting contributions from businesses in Limbang and across the country, the census will help identify sectoral performance and areas that require government support.
The activity at Medan Selera Limbang reflects DOSM’s focus on inclusivity, ensuring small traders and entrepreneurs are represented alongside larger companies. This balanced approach aims to provide a holistic picture of Malaysia’s economic landscape, capturing both rural and urban perspectives.
Local traders and residents welcomed the initiative, saying accurate data is essential for crafting policies that strengthen local businesses and improve livelihoods. DOSM reiterated its message that “Data is the people’s economic pulse,” stressing the importance of statistics in driving sustainable and inclusive growth.
The Limbang fieldwork forms part of DOSM Sarawak’s broader statewide effort to collect economic data, with similar visits planned in other districts. The department emphasised that cooperation from business operators is crucial to the success of BE 2026 and encouraged active participation.
As Malaysia moves toward a digital and knowledge-driven economy, the census will play a key role in shaping strategies for innovation, competitiveness, and long-term resilience. The data gathered will form a solid foundation for future planning and sustainable progress for both Sarawak and the nation.
