Knocking on Doors for Data to Guide National Policy

Black vests inscribed with ‘Economic Census Officer’ serve as a marker of the state’s presence amidst the rows of houses in the remote Kampung Benda Kerep, Argasunya, Cirebon, West Java. To reach residents’ homes, Widi Nugroho (42), a census officer, must first navigate narrow and steep roads.

On Tuesday (28/7), ANTARA followed Widi’s steps as a field enumerator for the 2026 Economic Census. He has been entrusted by the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) of Cirebon City to collect data that will later serve as the state’s foundation in drafting various development policies. A history of heart disease requires him to carefully monitor his physical capabilities; furthermore, motorcycles cannot always reach certain settlements, necessitating travel on foot in several areas.

The officer’s journey eventually led him to the home of Jaenab (51), who welcomed him with a friendly smile. The distance between the state and its citizens dissolved upon a simple blue plastic mat spread out for the interview. Shortly after, Widi produced his mobile phone, which featured FASIH, a digital application used by officers for face-to-face interview methods. Widi did not immediately begin the questionnaire; instead, he initiated the conversation by asking about well-being and daily activities to establish rapport.