The Department of Statistics Malaysia begins its 2026 Economic Census, surveying 1.34 million businesses to update national data and support post-pandemic policy
PUTRAJAYA: The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) has launched the 2026 Economic Census (BE2026), which will survey an estimated 1.34 million business entities nationwide.
The census, running from today until 31 October 2026, will cover micro, small, medium, and large enterprises across all economic sectors.
Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said BE2026 is a major five-yearly project to ensure comprehensive national economic data reflecting the post-COVID-19 landscape.
Data collection will occur in three phases, starting with informal and micro-sector organisations from now until 28 February.
The second phase from 1 March to 30 June will cover micro, small, and medium enterprises, while the third from 1 June to 31 October will involve medium and large organisations.
Methods will include face-to-face interviews, online forms, and postal submissions.
Themed ‘Data Nadi Ekonomi Rakyat’, the census encompasses all business and non-profit organisations in agriculture, manufacturing, construction, mining, quarrying, and services.
Based on latest DOSM records, micro-enterprises constitute the largest segment at 74.3% of businesses in 2025.
Small enterprises make up 20.8%, large enterprises 3.8%, and medium enterprises 1.1%.
Mohd Uzir also announced DOSM will implement a new base year of 2025 for national economic measurement, expected to be used from 2028.
“2025 is projected to be a more stable year as the national economy has moved past the post-pandemic recovery phase,” he said.
BE2026 is the sixth census conducted in Malaysia since 2001.
It will use the updated Malaysia Standard Industrial Classification 2025, covering five sectors, 17 sections, and 1,216 industries to reflect current economic structures.
The census supports major national policies including the 13th Malaysia Plan, New Industrial Master Plan 2030, and Digital Economy Agenda.
It will also focus on new economic landscapes like the gig economy, mobile services, and micro-businesses.
For the first time, the census will include the informal sector, covering food hawkers, small grocers, transport operators, and homestays.
