Malaysia’s economic strength remains apparent, with the latest figures from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) revealing a GDP per capita of USD14,423 (around RM61,903). While just under the global average of USD14,450 (RM62,018), this positions Malaysia as one of the top-performing nations in Southeast Asia.
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Regionally, Singapore remains far ahead of the pack. With a staggering GDP per capita of USD92,930 (RM391,403), the island nation not only leads Southeast Asia but also ranks fourth globally—outpacing numerous developed economies. It is notably the only Asian country to maintain a spot in the world’s top 10.
Brunei claims second place in the region, sitting 35th in the global ranking with USD34,970 (RM147,287) per capita. Malaysia continues to hold on to third, a position it has consistently maintained since 1985, underscoring decades of stable economic development.
In comparison, Thailand and Indonesia fall behind, with per capita incomes of USD7,770 (RM32,720) and USD5,030 (RM21,181) respectively. Several other ASEAN nations still record figures below the USD5,000 threshold.
Interestingly, while Southeast Asia shows steady economic progress, the same cannot be said for some of the world’s traditional economic giants. The United Kingdom, France, and Italy no longer make the cut for the IMF’s top 20 richest countries in 2025.
Meanwhile, China, despite its global influence, ranks 73rd with a GDP per capita of USD13,873 (RM59,490). India finds itself further down at 141st, with just USD2,937 (RM12,385) per person.
These figures reflect not only Malaysia’s resilience but also the shifting dynamics of global wealth and economic influence.
