The line graph below shows the amount of the population in four Asian countries living in cities between 1970 to 2020, as well as predictions for the next 20 years. Overall, this chart has an upward trend present in all four categories, with Malaysia having the highest percentage and Thailand with the lowest.
In 1970, Malaysia only had 30 per cent of its population located in cities, but the number quickly rose to 60% 20 years later and created an arc shape, with approximately 80% in rural areas now, and is expected to rise up to 83% by 2040. Indonesia started out with barely 10%, but since has steeply climbed up half its citizens and has been speculated to rise to just above 60% 20 years later. In the past, Thailand had about 20% in cities, and then slowly increased, with a stable period from 1990 to 2020 of 30%. By 2040, the percentage could go up to 50%.
In contrast, the Philippines fluctuated from time to time, beginning with 30 per cent, rising to 50 per cent, and then overlapping the Philippines at 45% before slightly going up to around 46%. Expectations are that it will achieve 52-53% in the span of 20 years.