Malaysia is the 7th most trusted country

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia was listed as the seventh most trusted country through the results of the Edelman Trust Barometer 2024 survey which involved a survey of 28 countries.

According to Bernama, the report stated that Malaysia moved up two places after recording an increase of six points to 68 in the overall Trust Index score or scoring which represents the average percentage of public trust in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), businesses, government and the media.

Other countries in the top 10 are China (score 79), India (76), United Arab Emirates (74), Indonesia (73), Saudi Arabia (72), Thailand (70), Singapore (67), Kenya ( 64) and Nigeria (61).

In his statement, Edelman said the government has seen an encouraging increase of 13 points in public trust since last year.

Edelman Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer, Chris de Cruz said the increase in trust achieved by Malaysia shows a shift in public perception towards governance and the country’s institutional framework.

“The situation shows an increase in optimism in the ability to navigate economic challenges as well as foster inclusive growth,” he said.

The results of the survey showed business to be the most trusted institution with a score of 75, followed by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) (70), government (67) and the media (60).

Edelman also described business as being seen as the driving force behind societal change and becoming the most trusted institution.

Based on the survey, Malaysians also hope that the group of chief executive officers will stand firm on critical issues including fair wages, climate change and economic inequality.

“Businesses that are in line with public values ​​and actively address community concerns, are more likely to gain public support. Businesses are the most trusted institutions in the Edelman Trust Barometer which is seen as a mechanism for innovation.

“However, businesses also need to prioritize implementation and embrace change just as much as research and development,” said de Cruz.

The report involved a survey conducted from 3-22 November 2023 and surveyed more than 32,000 respondents in 28 countries, including more than 1,000 in Malaysia which also gave an overview of public sentiment on aspects of trust, innovation and governance.

The effort also became the firm’s annual trust and credibility survey that highlights the foundation of its thought leadership program that examines trust and credibility across industries, geographies and demographics.