Singkawang City urges neighborhood heads to spearhead 2026 Economic Census

The Singkawang city government in West Kalimantan is mobilizing neighborhood heads (RT) to ensure the success of the 2026 Economic Census, organized by the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). City Mayor Tjhai Chui Mie emphasized the critical role RT heads play as the primary link between census takers and the community for the door-to-door data collection process.

"The role of RT heads is very vital. Starting from informing the schedule of the officers' arrival, accompanying them during door-to-door visits, to ensuring residents are willing to be interviewed. Cooperation between RT and officers will speed up the data collection process while maintaining environmental security," Mie stated. She highlighted that the success of the census hinges on their involvement, from informing residents about the schedule to ensuring their cooperation and maintaining local security during the process.

Mie explained that the data gathered from the census is fundamental for formulating regional policies and development plans. Accurate data allows the city government to understand the real conditions of the community, including poverty levels, stunting distribution, educational needs, and flood-prone areas, enabling more effective use of the regional budget. She urged residents to cooperate with BPS officers and provide honest answers, assuring them that personal data is protected by law.

The Head of BPS Singkawang, Yanuar Lestariadi, outlined the census timeline. The first phase, from May 1 to June 30, 2026, involves self-administered questionnaires for medium and large businesses. The second phase, from June 15 to August 31, 2026, is the door-to-door data collection, employing 197 census officers who will be identifiable by black vests with the BPS logo and official identification. Residents are advised to verify officers' credentials and can confirm with the local BPS office or their RT head if in doubt.