SUNGAI BULOH: The 2024 Agriculture Census by the Statistics Department is progressing smoothly, with 20% completion nationwide since it began on July 7.
Chief statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin stated that as of July 26, a total of 251,371 visits have been carried out, with Sabah recording the highest number, followed by Johor and Sarawak.
"This census is a strategic initiative to collect comprehensive and current data on the status and development of Malaysia's agricultural sector.
"This data will be used to plan more effective policies, strategies, and interventions to boost the sector's competitiveness and resilience," he said during a visit to the census in Kampung Kubu Gajah on Sunday (July 28).
Mohd Uzir urged all involved parties to provide honest and accurate information to the census takers to ensure the effectiveness of the data.
He emphasised that the success of the programme depends on the collective effort to generate accurate data, as precise information is crucial.
For this reason, the role of the village head is essential to ensure effective cooperation from community members, he added.
"Alhamdulillah, so far, through collaboration with state-level agencies and agricultural practitioners in the districts, we have received 100% commitment. This is an early indicator that we will complete this programme successfully," he said.
The 2024 Agriculture Census, which will conclude on Oct 10, covers four main subsectors: crops, livestock, aquaculture, and forestry.
It is the fourth such census conducted in Malaysia, the last one being in 2005. – Bernama