AI, BIG DATA STRENGTHEN STATISTICAL MANAGEMENT IN MALAYSIA AND ASEAN

MELAKA, Nov 6 (Bernama) -- The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics has become a key catalyst for regional innovation and integration, strengthening statistical and data management in Malaysia and across ASEAN.

Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said that as a leading reference country in the field of statistics, particularly within ASEAN, adopting data-driven approaches is crucial to ensure that every government policy and decision takes into account the well-being of people at all levels.

“In the past, we relied heavily on macro or average figures, but now our focus is on more inclusive statistics — data that truly reflect the realities of people’s lives, wherever they are and across different socio-economic levels,” he told reporters after the launching of the ASEAN-Malaysia Statistical Forum 2025 and the 75th anniversary celebration of the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) here today.

The event was launched by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.

Mohd Uzir said the integration of AI into the national statistical system not only enhances efficiency but also enables faster and more accurate decision-making in line with the demands of an increasingly fast-paced world.

He explained that technologies such as satellite imagery, remote sensing and mobile data analytics are now helping reduce reliance on conventional field data collection methods.

“For example, in the tourism sector, we can use mobile movement data to identify popular tourist destinations and tailor promotional efforts according to visitors’ interests. In agriculture, satellite imagery and AI can be used to assess crop areas without the need to send teams into the field,” he said.

However, he emphasised that technology cannot completely replace traditional data collection methods, which continue to provide a fundamental baseline that can be regularly updated with the latest information.

Mohd Uzir added that Malaysia’s recognition at the regional and global levels as a leading country in producing high-quality, accessible data demonstrates DOSM’s commitment to data transparency and reliability.

To that end, he said the department has developed the Virtual Academy Platform as a training and knowledge-sharing hub among ASEAN countries, aimed at strengthening regional capacity in producing quality data.

“Through this platform, we share expertise and experience so that other countries do not have to start from scratch. For example, more than 20 officials from Laos, including those from the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Economy, recently attended training in Malaysia to learn about our statistical system,” he said.

He added that strengthening regional cooperation in the field of statistics and data is vital to narrowing development gaps, in line with the concept of ‘prosper our neighbour’, as the progress of neighbouring countries contributes to overall ASEAN economic growth.

“We do not want to see wide disparities between countries, as regional progress can only be achieved when all parties develop together,” he said.

Mohd Uzir also said that Malaysia and ASEAN are currently implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Dashboard, a regional platform that enables various stakeholders to jointly assess socio-economic progress, poverty levels and sustainability.

“Through this dashboard, not only statistical offices but also ministries, agencies and the public can evaluate current strengths and challenges, thereby helping to formulate policies that are more inclusive and effective,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ab Rauf said the state government believes that accurate data will lead to sound policies and ultimately contribute to national well-being.

“The role of statistics is vital in any government for planning and charting the future. In Melaka, we use such data as a compass to guide the state’s administrative direction and ensure our objectives remain focused,” he said.

-- BERNAMA