EMBARGO: Only to be published or disseminated at 01:10 hour, Saturday, 2 November 2024

COST OF LIVING INDICATORS, 2023

The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) presents its inaugural publication of Cost of Living Indicators 2023. The findings from the Household Income, Expenditure and Basic Amenities Survey (HIES/BA) 2022 and Consumer Price Index (CPI) 2023 are used to derive the cost of living indicators. The statistics are compiled based on the concepts and guidelines from A Methodology to Estimate the Needs of Workers and Their Families (2021), published by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).


The cost of living indicators covered in this publication include Basic Expenditure of Decent Living (PAKW) and Cost of Living Index (KSH). PAKW is analysed according to demographic details such as household, household per capita, household size, state, administrative district and strata level. These statistics provide as input for policymakers, academics and researchers in analysing policies related to the cost of living and the socio-economic situation in the country.


This publication is divided into three main parts. The first part presents key highlights and a summary of the findings, covering the background, concepts and definitions of cost of living in Malaysia. The second part contains statistical tables related to PAKW and KSH Index. Meanwhile, the third part includes technical notes explaining the concepts and definitions, method for determining PAKW and methodology for calculating PAKW to help users understand the published statistics.


DOSM extends its highest appreciation to all parties who contributed, both directly and indirectly, to the realisation of this publication. Feedback and suggestions from all parties for improving future publications are highly appreciated.

Contact person:
Baharudin Mohamad
Public Relation Officer
Strategic Communication and International Division
Department of Statistics Malaysia
Tel : +603-8090 4681
Fax : +603-8888 9248
Email : baharudin[at]dosm.gov.my
Copyright ©2026 Department of Statistics Malaysia Official Portal. All Rights Reserved.
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