The line graph illustrates the proportion of the population residing in cities in four Asian countries – namely the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia – from 1970 to 2020, with projections for 2030 and 2040.
Overall, all four countries experienced an upward trend in urbanisation throughout the period, and this growth is expected to continue in the future. Malaysia had the highest proportion of urban residents over the entire period, while Thailand and Indonesia started with the lowest figures but are predicted to increase steadily.
In 1970, around 50% of Malaysians lived in cities, compared with about 30% in the Philippines and less than 20% in Thailand and Indonesia. By 2020, the figures had risen significantly to roughly 75% in Malaysia and about 50% in both the Philippines and Indonesia, whereas Thailand remained slightly lower at around 45%.
Looking ahead, the proportion of urban dwellers in all four nations is expected to continue rising. By 2040, Malaysia is predicted to reach nearly 90%, remaining the most urbanised country among the four. The Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia are projected to increase to approximately 55%, 50%, and 60%, respectively.