Malaysia ranks fifth in ASEAN and 64th globally for happiness, reflecting community values. Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand follow in regional rankings. Finland remains the happiest nation, while Lebanon and Afghanistan rank among the least happy. Trust and social connections are crucial for happiness, as highlighted by Gallup CEO Jon Clifton.
Malaysia has been ranked fifth happiest among ASEAN nations and 64th globally according to the latest World Happiness Report. The report indicates that Malaysians share an average of 11 meals weekly with others, reflecting the value of community and connection in their lives. In the ASEAN rankings, Singapore secured the top position at 34th worldwide, followed by Vietnam and Thailand at 46th and 49th, respectively.
Indonesia followed Malaysia in the rankings at 83rd, with Laos ranked 93rd, Cambodia at 124th, and Myanmar at 126th. Notably, Brunei was not included in the survey. Finland remains the happiest country globally for the eighth consecutive year, achieving a notable score of 7.736 on the Life Evaluation Index, while Denmark and Iceland placed second and third.
The report highlights several least happy countries, including Lebanon, Sierra Leone, and Afghanistan, ranking 141st, 142nd, and 143rd, respectively. Meanwhile, Palestine was ranked 108th, surpassing Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Egypt, with Palestinians reporting an average happiness score of 4.7 out of 10.
In a statement, Gallup CEO Jon Clifton emphasized that happiness transcends mere wealth and growth, focusing on essential elements such as trust and connection, stating, “This year’s report proves we underestimate how kind the world really is. If we want stronger communities and economies, we must invest in what truly matters – each other.” The World Happiness Report is a collaboration between Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and the report’s Editorial Board, surveying about 1,000 individuals annually in each country.
The World Happiness Report reveals Malaysia as the fifth happiest country in ASEAN and 64th globally, emphasizing the role of community ties through shared meals. While Finland leads the global ranking, the findings suggest that happiness is rooted in trust and strong connections, and not just in economic measures. Addressing the happiness levels of various nations highlights the importance of fostering relationships and understanding in communities.
Original Source: www.dailyexpress.com.my
