The following report presents information on the percentage of urban population in four Asian countries from 1970 to 2040, with projections for 2030 and 2040.
Overall, the trend indicates a significant increase in urbanization across all four countries over the period analyzed, with Malaysia and the Philippines experiencing the most rapid urban growth. While Thailand and Indonesia also show steady urbanization, they lag behind the other two countries in terms of urban population percentage by 2020.
In 1970, the Philippines had the highest urban population percentage among the four countries at over 30%, followed closely by Malaysia at around 25%. By 2020, Malaysia surpassed the Philippines, reaching 70% urban population, while the Philippines stood at just under 70%. This trend suggests a clear shift in urbanization dynamics between the two countries, with Malaysia experiencing a more rapid urban growth compared to the Philippines.
By contrast, Thailand and Indonesia had lower urban population percentages in 1970, with Thailand at 15% and Indonesia just above 10%. However, by 2020, both countries showed steady urbanization progress, with Thailand reaching 40% and Indonesia at 35%. Looking ahead to 2040, Thailand is projected to further increase its urban population percentage to 60%, while Indonesia is expected to reach 50%. Despite the progress, both countries still lag behind Malaysia and the Philippines in terms of urbanization rates.