Band 8+: IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 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.

The line graph illustrates the percentage of the population living in cities in four Southeast Asian countries—Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia—between 1970 and 2040.

In 1970, Malaysia and the Philippines had similar urban populations, both around 30%. Meanwhile, Thailand had an urbanization rate of approximately 15%, and Indonesia had the lowest percentage at around 10%. By 1980, Malaysia’s urban population increased to nearly 40%, surpassing the Philippines, which grew more slowly to about 35%. Thailand and Indonesia also experienced slight increases, reaching approximately 20% and 15%, respectively. In 1990, Malaysia continued its rapid urbanization, reaching around 50%, while the Philippines also saw an increase to about 45%. Thailand and Indonesia maintained their upward trends, with urban populations of approximately 25% and 20%, respectively. By the year 2000, Malaysia’s urban population had grown significantly to 60%, widening the gap with the Philippines, which remained stable at around 45%. Indonesia showed a notable rise, surpassing 30%, while Thailand had a slower increase, reaching just above 25%. In 2010, Malaysia’s urbanization rate continued to grow steadily, reaching approximately 65%. Indonesia experienced a rapid increase, reaching 40%, while Thailand remained the slowest-growing country, with only a slight rise to about 30%. The Philippines showed little change, staying around 45-50%. By 2020, Malaysia’s urban population had surpassed 70%, while Indonesia continued its upward trend, exceeding 50%. The Philippines still showed minimal change, remaining close to 50%, and Thailand continued its gradual increase to about 35%. Projections indicate that by 2030, Malaysia’s urban population will reach 75%, making it the most urbanized country among the four. Indonesia is expected to continue its rapid growth, reaching nearly 60%. The Philippines will experience a slight increase, surpassing 50%, while Thailand is projected to reach about 40%. By 2040, Malaysia’s urban population is expected to peak at approximately 80%. Indonesia’s urbanization rate will continue to rise, reaching about 65%. The Philippines is forecasted to reach around 55%, while Thailand will have the lowest urban population, at just over 40%.

In conclusion, Malaysia is projected to remain the most urbanized country, while Indonesia will experience the most rapid growth. The Philippines will see moderate growth, while Thailand will have the slowest urbanization rate.