Malaysia’s Digital Landscape: Key Takeaways from MyCensus 2020
- 11.8 million Malaysians aged 15 and over access the internet via mobile data.
- Home internet is the second most popular access point with 5.3 million users.
- WhatsApp reigns supreme among social media platforms with 86.5% users.
- 81.9% of Malaysians prioritize family time, eating dinner together.
- A significant 41.4% interact with neighbours daily, showcasing strong community ties.
Malaysia’s digital landscape is evolving rapidly, and the latest report from the Statistics Department (DOSM) provides a comprehensive look into the nation’s internet habits and social interactions.
Mobile Data: The Preferred Choice
According to the MyCensus 2020: Population Well-Being (Social Relations) report, a whopping 11.8 million Malaysians aged 15 and above prefer mobile data to access the internet. This preference surpasses other means such as home internet, workplaces, and community facilities.
Interestingly, while males dominate mobile data usage with 6.1 million users, females lead in home internet access with 2.7 million users.
Social Media: WhatsApp Takes the Crown
The report also delves into the social media preferences of Malaysians. Out of the 16 million respondents, a dominant 86.5% (13.8 million persons) use WhatsApp, making it the most popular platform. Facebook and Instagram follow suit with 12.3 million and 6.3 million users respectively. Other platforms like Telegram, X (previously Twitter), and LinkedIn also have a significant user base.
Eating Together: A Cherished Tradition
Malaysians value family time, as evident from the 81.9% (10.9 million) respondents who eat dinner together. Breakfast and lunch also see high family participation rates. The data interestingly reveals that females are more likely to eat together during main meals, while more males prefer late-night suppers.
Neighbourly Interactions: A Testament to Community Spirit
The report paints a heartwarming picture of community interactions in Malaysia. A significant 41.4% of respondents engage in daily face-to-face interactions with their neighbours. This sense of community is even more pronounced among the elderly, with 46.7% of those aged 65 and above greeting neighbours daily.
However, there’s a small segment (6.5%) that doesn’t interact with neighbours within a month, pointing towards a need for fostering stronger community ties.
