Article: Building Public Trust, the Key to the Success of the 2026 Economic Census (Gunawan, 2026)

Pesisir Barat – The success of the 2026 Economic Census (EC2026) depends not only on sound data collection methods and the preparedness of field enumerators, but also on public trust in the census process. This was highlighted by Dr. Drs. Gunawan, M.Si., Head of the Regional Development Planning, Research, and Innovation Agency (Bapperida) of Pesisir Barat Regency, in his article entitled "Building Public Trust in the 2026 Economic Census: Enumerator Ethics, Public Participation, and Evidence-Based Policymaking."

In his article, Gunawan emphasizes that the 2026 Economic Census is a strategic national initiative designed to provide comprehensive baseline data on economic activities, serving as the foundation for development planning and policymaking. Accurate and reliable data will enable both the central and regional governments to formulate more targeted policies for MSME development, investment promotion, job creation, and poverty alleviation.

According to him, public trust is the cornerstone of a successful census. The public needs to understand that all information collected is used exclusively for statistical purposes and is protected under applicable laws and regulations. Therefore, effective, transparent, and continuous public communication is essential to strengthen public confidence in the census.

He also underlines the importance of enumerator ethics. As representatives of the government in the field, census enumerators are expected to work professionally, courteously, and honestly while clearly explaining the purpose of the data collection in language that is easy for respondents to understand. At the same time, the public is encouraged to verify the identity of census officers while providing accurate and complete information to ensure the production of high-quality statistical data.

Furthermore, Gunawan stresses the importance of collaboration among BPS, local governments, and the public through extensive public outreach, strengthened communication skills for enumerators, accessible public complaint channels, and the effective utilization of the 2026 Economic Census results as the basis for regional development policies.

"Data are not merely numbers; they are the foundation for identifying economic potential, setting development priorities, and formulating policies that truly benefit the people," he stated.

Through the collaboration of all stakeholders, the 2026 Economic Census is expected to produce accurate, reliable, and high-quality economic data that will serve as a solid foundation for more effective and sustainable national and regional development.

Read the full article at: https://s.bps.go.id/1813-artikel