Population and Housing Censuses have long been the cornerstone of national statistical systems, producing comprehensive data essential for planning and policymaking. However, traditional full field enumeration is increasingly constrained by rising costs, operational complexity, declining response rates, and growing demand for timely data. In response, countries are increasingly exploring the use of administrative data to modernize census-taking, a shift that offers clear benefits but requires a strong institutional and technical capacity.
To support this transition, ESCAP developed the Self-Assessment Tool on Readiness to Use Administrative Data for Census (SATRAC), which helps countries to evaluate their institutional and technical capacity and guide strategic planning. Indonesia is among the first in Asia and the Pacific to conduct an assessment using the SATRAC. This Stats Brief presents Indonesia’s experience, highlighting key insights from its assessment and identifying strategic priorities for developing a national roadmap. The findings offer valuable lessons for other countries pursuing modern census approaches.