Statistics bureau to take census on economic structure

Statistics bureau to take census on economic structure

JAKARTA (JP): The National Bureau of Statistics plans to
conduct an economic census to obtain data on ways to overcome the
unequal distribution of development gains.

Bureau chairman Sugito said yesterday that the census, which
will start in December, is expected to come up with comprehensive
data on the national economic structure, including imbalances in
economic development among the various provinces and sectors.

"The data are needed to forge strategies to promote even
distribution of the fruits of development," he said at a hearing
with House of Representatives Commission X on sciences.

He said that the census would cover all levels of businesses
from small-scale entrepreneurs to conglomerates.

The government bureau's plan received strong support from the
commission. Legislators expressed their hope that the census
would help narrow the widening gulf between the rich and the
poor.

M.P. Pasaribu of the ruling Golkar party and Syaifuddin of the
United Development Party factions warned that the economic
disparities among individuals and regions could burst like a time
bomb if they are not properly addressed.

"Political will in the part of the government is also vital to
overcome the problem," Pasaribu said.

Alif Sofyan of the Indonesian Democratic Party said that the
government should also step up development in the eastern part of
the country.

Sugito said that BPS would use labor indicators to classify
economic activities.

For instance, a company employing 5 to 21 workers will fall
into the small business category, while those employing 22 to 99
workers will be medium-scale businesses and those employing 100
workers or more will be considered large-scale, he said.

He said that almost all large-scale companies, including
conglomerate owners, are reluctant to give data on their business
and assets. (rms)