Statistics Indonesia and Central Java Government Sign MoU to Strengthen Regional Development Data

The Central Java economy plays a vital role in shaping Indonesia’s overall economic landscape. Recognizing the importance of robust and meaningful data in driving regional progress, Statistics Indonesia (BPS) and the Central Java Provincial Government have formalized a strategic partnership to enhance the development, provision, and use of statistical data for regional development.

Chief Statistician of Statistics Indonesia, Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti, emphasized the significance of the collaboration during the signing ceremony held at the Gradhika Bhakti Praja Building in Semarang on July 4. “The Central Java economy significantly influences Indonesia’s overall economy. I hope this partnership will be followed by concrete steps to produce high-quality, meaningful, and impactful statistics,” she said.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Amalia and Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi. The agreement focuses on the provision, utilization, and development of statistical data and information to support local development planning. The event was also attended by the Provincial Secretary of Central Java, the Acting Head of BPS Central Java, regents and mayors from across the province, heads of regional agencies, and BPS officials from district and city levels.

Governor Luthfi underscored the importance of accurate and up-to-date data in shaping effective public policy. “Data is a crucial element in determining the direction of public policy. It documents the development of a region across various sectors and serves as a foundation for strategic planning,” he said.

He further explained that the cooperation will focus on the collection and validation of three key data categories: investment, industry, and agriculture—areas considered vital to unlocking Central Java’s regional potential. The initiative also aligns with new directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, which now emphasize not only inflation control but also the enhancement of economic data collection at the provincial level. Central Java is among the first regions in Indonesia to take on this initiative.

 “This data is essential for formulating public policies both at the provincial and district/city levels. That’s why collaboration among local governments, academics, and business actors is crucial,” he added.

The Chief Statistician also noted that Central Java is one of 7–8 provinces selected as pilot areas for strengthening local statistical systems, which forms part of the preparation for the upcoming 2026 Economic Census (SE2026). “The 2026 Economic Census will not just involve sampling; it will capture the full scope of Indonesia’s economic activities—including in Central Java. This MoU will provide the formal framework to support that effort,” Amalia explained.

Through this partnership, Statistics Indonesia and the Central Java Government commit to producing more comprehensive and reliable data while safeguarding the confidentiality of internal data used for policy analysis. The ultimate goal is to generate accurate, targeted information that can guide effective public policy and foster inclusive regional development.