Country explorer: Malaysia

Malaysia has experienced significant economic transformation, evident in its higher GDP per capita growth compared to regional peers like Indonesia and the Philippines, sustained low unemployment rates, controlled inflation, and considerable progress in reducing poverty across various thresholds, signaling substantial societal shifts towards middle-income status while maintaining economic stability.

Malaysia has experienced a moderate population growth, positive net migration attracting a diverse workforce, a gradual decrease in fertility rates signifying a transition towards lower birth rates common in developed economies, and a consistent improvement in life expectancy which highlights advancements in healthcare and living standards, trends that collectively reflect its emergence as a dynamic, middle-income country.

Malaysia has consistently maintained high access to clean cooking fuels, electricity, and safe water, reflecting significant societal advancement and setting it apart from many of its peers in providing essential services for improving public health and quality of life.

Malaysia has demonstrated significant human development growth, exemplified by improvements in its Human Development Index, reductions in child mortality rate, increases in literacy rate, and advancements in learning-adjusted years of schooling, positioning it as a leader in human development among upper-middle-income countries.

Malaysia has experienced a nuanced trajectory in its environment and energy sectors, marked by efforts to balance growth with sustainability, as evidenced by significant shifts towards renewable energy production and a complex dynamic in forest area management, setting a distinctive path compared to its regional peers.

Malaysia has experienced significant technological growth, evidenced by increasing internet usage, mobile phone subscriptions, investment in research and development, and scientific publication output, aligning itself with the accelerating digital and innovation trends seen across upper-middle-income countries.

Malaysia has experienced a notable increase in its immigrant population, enhanced life satisfaction among its citizens, and made significant strides in reducing gender inequality, setting it apart as a nation on a robust path of socio-cultural and economic development.

Malaysia has experienced notable governance transformations, characterized by significant improvements in the rule of law, a fluctuating yet prevalent struggle against corruption, and marked advancements in political civil liberties and press freedom, reflecting both its unique journey and shared challenges among upper-middle-income countries.