Department Of Statistics Diversifies Data Collection Methods

The Department of Statistics Malaysia

Department Of Statistics Diversifies Data Collection Methods

ALOR SETAR, Sept 5 (Bernama) -- The Department of Statistics Malaysia has diversified its method of data collection to supply fast and accurate information to ensure the country's plans can be executed in an orderly manner.

Chief Statistician Dr Abdul Rahman Hasan said data collection had focused on interviews, but now other methods such as self-completion, telephone, fax, e-mail and e-Survey had also been implemented.

In February 2009, the e-Survey method for the Monthly Manufacturing Survey was launched.

"It initially received poor response, but now, 1,449 organisations or 33 per cent of respondents use e-Survey to give their feedback," said Abdul Rahman, when launching the Importance of Statistics in the National Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) Seminar here Thursday.

He said the e-Survey gave respondents the flexibility to provide information when it suited them, and had a more friendly and interactive display when filling out data.

"The e-Survey will continue to be developed and used as a main mechanism in data collection, in line with the country's aspirations in enculturating innovation.

"Therefore, the department suggests that all quarters use the online system, such as e-Survey, to facilitate the data collection process," he added.

Meanwhile, Abdul Rahman said the e-Services facility was launched on April 2, this year, to help improve services to customers and stakeholders, in the department's official website.

"This service allows users to obtain data for free and buy publications online. We are also cooperating with Bernama (Malaysian National News Agency) to disseminate the statistics to the public," he added.

-- BERNAMA