Statistik jangan jadi angka perhiasan, kata Akmal

Menteri Ekonomi Akmal Nasir has emphasized that the welfare of the people should be the primary focus, rather than merely pursuing economic figures. In a statement during the National Statistics Day (HSN) 2026 National Celebration in Putrajaya, Nasir stressed that data and statistics should accurately reflect the reality of people's lives and guide government actions, rather than just being decorative numbers on paper.

He emphasized that economic decisions cannot be based solely on assumptions, especially in the face of geopolitical uncertainties, supply chain challenges, artificial intelligence advancements, and demographic changes. Nasir stated that the nation needs accurate data, analytical expertise, and the readiness to change approaches when evidence shows the outcomes are insufficient.

He added that statistics are not just about describing a situation; they must help determine the appropriate actions. Furthermore, Nasir argued that the government should change the way success is measured from merely looking at the amount of expenditure to assessing the true benefits gained. He explained that the goal of development is to improve the lives of the people, not merely to chase economic figures like the KDNK.

He also mentioned the Basic Living Expenses (PAKW) Indicator developed by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), stating that it helps the government assess the adequacy of income and the pressure of living costs based on location and household size. The PAKW is not the minimum wage, but rather an instrument to provide a more accurate picture of household expenditure needs.

He concluded that when income and productivity data are combined with PAKW, the government can more clearly see the gap between income and living needs, thus shaping more targeted interventions.