Melaka: Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional collaboration in statistics and data governance to support inclusive and sustainable development across ASEAN. Deputy Minister of Economy Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib emphasized Malaysia’s dedication to upholding evidence-based policies and enhancing regional partnerships to drive growth and resilience among ASEAN member states.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, these efforts are in line with the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which focuses on economic resilience, digital transformation, and environmental sustainability. This approach not only benefits Malaysia but also contributes significantly to ASEAN’s collective progress toward a more integrated and future-ready region. Hanifah made these remarks during the ASEAN-Malaysia Statistics Week 2025 Networking Dinner, held alongside the 15th Session of the ASEAN Community Statistical System (ACSS15) Committee.
Hanifah highlighted that through collaboration within the ACSS, member states are strengthening their capacity to produce accurate and comprehensive statistics. This collaboration is crucial in building a data-driven, people-centered ASEAN region capable of strategically facing global challenges. The event also saw the attendance of Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin.
The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) continues to achieve impactful milestones under the ministry’s leadership, reflecting the nation’s focus on evidence-based policymaking. Key achievements this year include the 2024 Agriculture Census and the successful organisation of the National and World Statistics Day 2025 in Pahang. These initiatives aim to promote inclusivity within the national data ecosystem.
Malaysia’s top global position in the Open Data Inventory (ODIN) 2024/25, with an overall score of 90 percent, underscores DOSM’s commitment to enhancing the accessibility and transparency of official data. Hanifah expressed confidence that Malaysia’s efforts in strengthening statistical capacity and data innovation will continue to support ASEAN cooperation, advancing shared goals of sustainable and equitable development.
She encouraged continued collaboration, stating, ‘Let this evening be a continuation of that spirit to forge new friendships, strengthen old ties, and reaffirm our shared commitment to statistical excellence. May our collaboration continue to flourish, bringing shared prosperity and lasting peace to our region in the spirit of ASEAN.’
The DOSM has been tasked with chairing and hosting five key meetings and one ASEAN regional statistical forum as part of Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025.