The World Happiness Report ranks Malaysia fifth in ASEAN and 64th globally, noting that Malaysians share an average of 11 meals weekly. Singapore led ASEAN at 34th globally, followed by Vietnam and Thailand. Finland was ranked first globally. Gallup CEO Jon Clifton highlights the significance of trust and relationships in fostering happiness.
In the recent World Happiness Report, Malaysia ranks fifth among ASEAN nations and 64th globally. The report indicates that Malaysians share an average of 11 meals per week with others, highlighting social connections. Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand followed in the rankings at 34th, 46th, and 49th globally, respectively. Other ASEAN countries include Indonesia (83rd), Laos (93rd), Cambodia (124th), and Myanmar (126th), whereas Brunei was excluded from the survey.
Finland has maintained its top position for the eighth consecutive year with a score of 7.736 on the Life Evaluation Index. Denmark and Iceland secured the second and third positions, respectively. Meanwhile, Lebanon, Sierra Leone, and Afghanistan ranked among the least happy countries at 141st, 142nd, and 143rd, respectively. Notably, Palestine, despite its challenges, was ranked 108th, above Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Egypt, with an average happiness score of 4.7 out of 10.
Gallup CEO Jon Clifton emphasized that happiness transcends mere financial or economic metrics, asserting that trust and relationships are fundamental. 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, released on the UN’s International Day of Happiness, is a joint effort between Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and its Editorial Board. The assessment involves surveying about 1,000 individuals per country annually, providing insights into global happiness dynamics.
Malaysia’s position as the fifth happiest in ASEAN, coupled with its ranking of 64th globally, underscores the importance of social interaction, as seen in the average of 11 meals shared weekly. The report highlights Finland’s sustained leadership in happiness, while emphasizing the roles of trust and community in achieving well-being. Ultimately, investing in interpersonal relationships is fundamental to fostering strong communities and improving happiness.
Original Source: www.dailyexpress.com.my
