Band 7+: 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 above depicts the urban population data of four Asian countries in 1970 and 2020, as well as population projections between 2030 and 2040.

According to the graph, Malaysia had 30% of its total population living in urban areas, with the urban population starting at 30% in 1970. It then continued to increase to around 43% in 1990 and reached a peak of 80% in the following five decades. Malaysia has the highest urbanization rate among all the countries.

Indonesia has a high urbanization rate, starting from around 15% in 1970 and rising to around 55% by 2040. Indonesia ranks second among the four countries.

While the Philippines and Thailand show an increase in the percentage of urban population, the rate of change is stable and gradual. The Philippines had around 30% of its population living in major urban areas, and this figure fluctuated from around 32% to 40%, eventually increasing to 50% by 2040. Thailand, starting with a percentage of almost 20%, is expected to exceed 40% by the same year.