The diagram compares the proportion of the population living in urban areas in four Asian countries—Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand—from 1970 to 2040. Overall, all four countries are expected to experience a significant increase in urbanization, with the lowest levels in 1970 and peaks predicted by 2040.
Malaysia and Indonesia follow similar trends. Malaysia’s urban population grew from 40% in 1970 to around 45% by 1990. After that, a sharp rise is expected, reaching nearly 80% by 2040. Indonesia, starting at 12%, saw slower growth, rising to just over 20% by 1990. However, the urban population is predicted to increase fivefold, reaching over 60% by 2040.
In contrast, the Philippines and Thailand display more fluctuation. In the Philippines, the urbanization rate remained stable at slightly above 30% for a decade before jumping to 50%. This was followed by a slight decline until 2010, after which a gradual increase is predicted, reaching approximately 60% by 2040. Thailand, experiencing the least change, grew from 20% to 25% between 1970 and 1990. The rate remained stable for three decades, with predictions indicating a doubling to 50% by 2040.