The chart shows the percentage of people living in urban areas in the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia from 1970 to 2020, with projections for 2030 and 2040.
Overall, all four countries experienced an increase in their urban populations over the given period, and this trend is expected to continue through to 2040. Notably, while Indonesia had the lowest percentage of urban dwellers in 1970, it is predicted to have one of the highest by 2040.
In detail, Indonesia had the smallest proportion of its population living in urban areas in 1970, at about 15 percent. However, this figure rose steadily over the years, reaching around 50 percent by 2020. It is forecasted to rise further to just over 60 percent by 2040, making it the second highest among the four countries. Similarly, Thailand started with an urban population of around 20 percent in 1970. This figure is projected to more than double, reaching approximately 50 percent by 2040.
Malaysia had a higher urbanization rate from the beginning, with about 30 percent of its population living in cities in 1970. This proportion increased significantly to about 75 percent by 2020 and is expected to rise further, reaching around 80 percent by 2040. In contrast, the Philippines showed a relatively moderate increase in its urban population, from around 33 percent in 1970 to about 45 percent in 2020. The urban population in the Philippines is expected to continue to grow steadily, reaching nearly 55 percent by 2040.