On Saturday (July 12), a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was held to discuss the Draft Law on Statistics (RUU Statistik). Prior to the FGD session, all attendees—particularly student representatives from Polstat STIS, ITB, and IPB University—were provided with background knowledge on the urgency of the new Statistics Law amid the growing demand for faster and more diverse data.

The session then continued with presentations of proposals related to the Statistics Law, starting with Fabian, a representative from the Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences program at ITB. He was followed by Goni, a representative from the Statistics and Data Science program at IPB University, and finally by Ni Putu Lidya Pramesty from Polstat STIS.

All three student representatives welcomed the introduction of the new Statistics Law as a crucial effort to strengthen a national statistical system that is aligned with current developments. They emphasized the importance of improving data quality, ensuring open access to data, and encouraging public participation within the statistical ecosystem. In addition, they proposed the establishment of a supporting body such as a National Statistical Council, the adoption of international principles, and clear procedures for the management of special statistics to maintain accuracy, efficiency, and harmonization with other regulations.

Following the presentations, a discussion was held led by Sturman Panjaitan, Chair of the Working Committee (Panja) for the Draft Law on Statistics. The key points highlighted in the discussion included the importance of efficiency and clear roles in the management of national data. It was proposed that the management of the National Data Center (PDN) should ideally be carried out through collaboration between Statistics Indonesia (BPS) and the Ministry of Communication and Informatics (Kominfo), without establishing an entirely new system.

Another critical issue raised was data protection, particularly regarding data security and privacy within the National Statistical System (SSN). The discussion also touched upon the need to reconsider the minimum age requirement for statistical officials—especially the 45-year minimum age limit set in the draft law—so as not to hinder the potential of younger but competent professionals.

FGD Bersama Panja RUU Statistik