SAS Institute Certifies Data Scientists from Department of Statistics Malaysia

SAS, the leader in analytics software and services, has announced the certification of 10 data scientists from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM).

The statisticians from the DOSM who underwent rigorous data science training and multiple exams will be certified as SAS data scientists. This will help to close the skills gap in data science and advance analytics education in the country. In collaboration with SAS Institute, DOSM became the world’s first-ever government agency to have certified data scientists in 2018.

The certified statisticians were trained for the multidisciplinary practice of data science, including computer programming, advanced mathematics, artificial intelligence, data visualisation, database administration, data warehousing, and business intelligence.

The government is currently working to establish the National Big Data Analytic Centre (NBDAC) led by DOSM, to ensure each planning and decision-making process is based on data analytics in line with the Digital Government and the 4IR initiatives.

“This collaboration with DOSM is a demonstration of our commitment to supporting Malaysia in its digital government strategy and to stay ahead of the Fourth Industrial Revolution curve. By training and certifying data scientists in DOSM, we aim to help the country narrow the skills gap in data analytics and adhere to its 4IR mandate, progressing toward a high-tech, data-driven nation. We are committed to developing analytics education in data science and look forward to support the set-up of the NBDAC,” said Cheam Tat Inn, Managing Director (Malaysia), SAS Institute.

In 2021, the Malaysian government launched the National 4IR Policy, which aimed to improve the country’s implemented measures in unlocking the potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The policy focuses on five core technologies: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain and distributed ledger technology (DLT), advanced materials supported by cloud computing and big data analytic.

“As a government body, it is crucial that we lead the Fourth Industrial Revolution as we keep up with the rise of data-driven innovations. With our continued partnership with SAS, we are meeting the demands of rapidly advancing digitalisation by addressing the talent gap in data analytics. Thanks to our SAS certified data scientists, we are better positioned to develop government policies that are based on accurate data analysis and insights,” said YBHg Dato’ Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin, Chief Statistician, DOSM.

The graduation ceremony was held at Le Meridian Putrajaya, Malaysia on 28 March 2022, officiated by YBHg Dato’ Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin.