For emerging markets, success in the 21^st century hinges sufficiently on the ability to generate digital prowess. In this regard, Malaysia holds a distinct advantage over many of its regional peers, boasting an internet ecosystem that trumps those in other ASEAN emerging markets. With rapid innovation taking place in competing economies like Indonesia and Singapore, Malaysia must capitalise on its strong foundation to establish itself as a leading digital economy.

Internet Penetration Rate – As showcased in the figure below, Malaysia’s internet penetration rate of 83% is far higher than the rates prevailing in other Southeast Asian developing nations. This puts Malaysia in a position to launch innovation-backed growth that capitalizes on the country’s 25.6 million internet users. It is also important to note that Malaysia, though a developing economy, is almost at par with Singapore and Hong Kong in its internet penetration rate, and this is a testament of the progress that Malaysia has made as a country.