90% internet access in Malaysia

Malaysians have been glued to their devices as they stay updated on the Covid-19 pandemic.

PETALING JAYA: More than 90% of households in Malaysia have Internet access, according to latest official statistics as millions of Malaysians remain glued to their devices during the movement control order to contain the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Department of Statistic said household Internet penetration increased from 87% in 2018 to 90.1% in 2019.

Internet usage has also increased from 81.2% in 2018 to 84.2% in 2019.

There is almost 100% access to mobile phones among Malaysians.

Meanwhile, households with access to a computer decreased marginally from 71.7% in 2018 to 71.3% in 2019, but individuals using computers increased from 70.5% in 2018 to 72.1% in 2019.

The figures are among findings in the ICT Use and Access by Individuals and Households in Malaysia (2019) published by the department, to help in formulating national development policies and strategies.

Meanwhile, the department’s survey that a majority of Internet users are active in social networks (97.1%).

Other activities include downloading pictures, movies, videos or music and games (84.7%), finding information on goods or services (83.5%), internet voice calls (77.4%) and downloading software or applications (77.1%).

An analysis of Internet users by age group showed that those in the 20-24 age group were more likely to use the Internet to find a job (49.5%) and watch movies online (56.3%).

Individuals in the 25-29 age group are more like to do online banking (61.5%) as well as make online purchases (45.1%), while those aged between 35 and 39 use the Internet for travel-related preparations (32.6%).

Those aged between 45 and 49 use the Internet for posting opinions as well as making their views heard on socio-political issues. - FMT