Band 9: The graph below gives information about the percentage of the population in four Asian countries living in cities from 1970 to 2020, with predictions for 2030 and 2040. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant. Write at least 150 words.

The line graph illustrates the proportion of urban populations in four Asian countries – the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia – between 1970 and 2020, with projections provided until 2040.

Overall, the figures reveal a clear upward trend in all four nations, although the pace and magnitude of growth varied significantly. Malaysia experienced the most rapid and consistent increase, overtaking the Philippines in the early 1980s and reaching the highest level, while Indonesia showed a steady climb from the lowest starting point. By contrast, Thailand’s growth was relatively modest, and the Philippines displayed fluctuations rather than continuous expansion.

In 1970, the Philippines recorded the largest proportion of city dwellers at around 31%, followed closely by Malaysia at 28%. Indonesia and Thailand were considerably lower at approximately 13% and 18% respectively. By 1990, Malaysia had surpassed the Philippines, continuing its steep rise to exceed 80% by 2040. Meanwhile, the Philippines grew to nearly 50% before dipping slightly in 2010 and then recovering gradually. Indonesia increased steadily to almost 60% in 2040, while Thailand remained the least urbanized, ending at just below 50%.