The provided graph illustrates the urban population percentages in the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia from 1970 to 2040, as well as the projected percentages for 2030 and 2040.
Overall, Malaysia is projected to have the highest urban population percentage by 2040, followed by Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand, in that order. The urban population percentages for all four countries have shown an increasing trend from 1970 to 2020, with further increases expected by 2040.
In 1970, the urban population percentage was highest in the Philippines at 35%, followed by Malaysia at 30%, Thailand at 15%, and Indonesia at 10%. By 1990, the Philippines had reached 50%, Malaysia 45%, Thailand 30%, and Indonesia 25%. Malaysia experienced a significant surge and overtook the Philippines between 1970 and 1980, but the Philippines reclaimed the lead in 1990. Subsequently, the urban population in the Philippines declined until 2010, while Malaysia continued to increase, becoming the most densely populated country among the four by 2020, a trend expected to persist until 2040.
In 2000, both Thailand and Indonesia had the same urban population percentage. However, Indonesia’s percentage surged between 2000 and 2010, surpassing Thailand and drawing level with the Philippines. After 2010, Indonesia further exceeded the Philippines to become the second most densely populated country. Projections suggest that Malaysia will maintain its lead, with Indonesia following, then the Philippines, and Thailand having the lowest urban population percentage among the four countries by 2040.
