The release of the “Top 20 Happiest Cities in Malaysia for 2025” was meant to be a celebration of the nation’s well-being—but instead, it has sparked heated debates with many Malaysians questioning the accuracy of the rankings. As doubts grow over the survey’s methodology, the conversation raises a bigger question: What truly makes a city “happy”?
According to the ministry, the Malaysia Happiness Index has risen to 88.84% this year, up from 83.34% in 2020. The assessment involved 153 local authorities across the nation, with 75% of towns achieving a ‘Happy’ status and the remaining 25% classified as ‘Moderately Happy’.
The top-ranked districts and towns under the district council category include:
- Lipis, Pahang
- Cameron Highlands, Pahang
- Kuala Krai, Kelantan
- Bandar Baharu, Kedah
- Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan
- Jerantut, Pahang
- Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan
- Telupid, Sabah
City/municipal councils:
- Bintulu, Sarawak
- Temerloh, Pahang
- Johor Bahru, Johor
- Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan
- Jasin, Melaka
- Pontian, Johor
- Ampang Jaya, Selangor
- Batu Pahat, Johor
- Bandaraya Melaka, Melaka
- Petaling Jaya, Selangor
- Diraja Klang, Selangor
- Putrajaya
Despite the positive outlook presented by the index, many Malaysians have expressed scepticism regarding the rankings, especially because cities in Klang Valley and Johor are on the list. Many argue that the inclusion of certain districts and towns, particularly those less prominent or with known socio-economic challenges, raises questions about the criteria and data collection methods used.
Housing and Local Government Minister, Nga Kor Ming said “The criteria align with the international happiness index, which focuses on aspects such as stress levels, health, family relationships, and satisfaction with community services“. However, the lack of detailed information regarding the weighting of these factors and the specific data collection process has further fuelled public scepticism.
Many Malaysians took to social media to question the list’s accuracy, with one user jokingly asking if Klang had paid for the ranking. Another user questioned the basis of the rankings, pointing out that Klang struggles with crime while Johor Bahru faces high living costs and poor public transport. Most of the reactions reflect doubt and criticism, with many arguing that the rankings do not align with the daily realities faced by residents.
What do you think? Do you agree with the list?
Nakhla Sabrina contributed to this article
