According to the World Happiness Report, Malaysia ranks fifth in ASEAN and 64th globally. Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand follow closely in the regional happiness rankings. Finland remains the happiest country worldwide. The report emphasizes the role of social connections and community trust in overall happiness.
Malaysia is ranked the fifth happiest nation in ASEAN and 64th globally according to the recent World Happiness Report. Notably, Malaysians share an average of 11 meals per week with others. In the ASEAN rankings, Singapore claims the top position at 34th globally, followed by Vietnam at 46th and Thailand at 49th. Other countries in the region include Indonesia (83rd), Laos (93rd), Cambodia (124th), and Myanmar (126th), while Brunei’s results were not included in the survey.
Finland has maintained its position as the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year, scoring 7.736 on the Life Evaluation Index. Denmark and Iceland follow in second and third place, respectively. At the opposite end, Lebanon, Sierra Leone, and Afghanistan rank among the least happy nations at 141st, 142nd, and 143rd places, respectively. Palestine, despite ongoing conflict, is ranked 108th, scoring higher than countries such as Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Egypt.
Gallup CEO Jon Clifton emphasized that happiness transcends wealth or economic growth, highlighting the importance of trust and community connections. He stated, “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 released annually on the UN’s International Day of Happiness and involves a partnership between Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and the Editorial Board of the report. Each year, approximately 1,000 individuals from each country are surveyed to gather data.
In summary, the World Happiness Report highlights Malaysia’s position as the fifth happiest country in ASEAN and 64th globally. The findings further reveal the significant influence of social connections on happiness, as articulated by Gallup’s CEO. Finland continues to lead the global happiness rankings, while Lebanon, Sierra Leone, and Afghanistan remain at the lowest end. This report underscores the importance of investing in community relationships to foster contentment and well-being.
Original Source: www.dailyexpress.com.my
