Malaysia
Digital Lives Decoded 2024
Telenor first embarked on our journey in Malaysia in 1999, taking an ownership stake in Digi, now CelcomDigi, amidst the excitement of the new millennium. As we mark our 25th year in Malaysia, I am pleased to present the 2024 edition of Telenor Asia’s Digital Lives Decoded (Malaysia).
Now in its third year, this study focuses on how mobile connectivity is shaping smarter and safer lives in Malaysia. We also delved into how the proliferation of new technologies, such as AI, is making a mark in Malaysia, with 3 in 4 people already using AI tools in their daily lives.
With universal smartphone ownership (99%) and significant daily usage in Malaysia (averaging close to 5 hours a day), mobile connectivity remains an integral part of life, shaping how people in Malaysia connect, work, and navigate the world around them. Our study highlights a common appreciation for mobile devices as a gateway to a smarter life, enabling greater and quicker access to information, boosting productivity and supporting general well-being.
At the same time, the growing integration of AI into mobile devices has raised the stakes around understanding cyber threats and maintaining robust security measures to protect personal data. While many respondents are enthusiastic about the potential of AI to enhance their lives, our study reveals emerging concerns about data privacy and the paradox people increasingly face.
As Malaysia stands in prime position to capture opportunities in 5G and AI, bringing people on the journey is not just about increasing adoption and awareness, but also about equipping them with skills to safeguard their online experience and build better digital lives.
As we look to the future, we hope this study provides valuable insights into the digital behaviours and attitudes of Malaysians, to guide policymakers, businesses, and individuals towards a safer and smarter digital future.
Together, we aspire to build a digital Malaysia that is empowering, secure, and inclusive for all.
Håkon Bruaset Kjøl
Senior Vice President, Head of Investment Management
Deputy CEO of Telenor Asia
2024 Snapshot
Mobiles are helping people in Malaysia to live a smarter and safer life
Smartphone ownership is universal among internet users in Malaysia (99%), with 86% identifying it as their primary device for accessing the internet. As of 2024, Malaysians spend an average of 4 hours and 40 minutes online daily via mobile devices, marking a one-hour increase since 2016.
This usage exceeds the average for the Asia Pacific region, underscoring the dominance of mobile in the digital landscape. Looking at how behaviours are being shaped, it is clear that mobile devices are not just communication devices, but a gateway to smarter, safer, and more connected lifestyles.
AI is making its mark in Malaysia
When looking at attitudes towards emerging technologies, 1 in 2 Malaysians say they’re most excited by AI. This excitement is highest among males (57%) and high-income consumers (58%) and is consistent across age groups.
The role of AI has also grown in significance. Among the skills that AI has helped to improve, problem solving, research and creativity/idea generation come up top. As AI continues to evolve, its applications will diversify further. Looking ahead, data analysis is expected to be a key area where AI can provide even greater value.
But first, trust needs to be built
With the growing integration of AI into mobile devices, personal data privacy continues to be top of mind in Malaysia. In 2024, just under 4 in 10 Malaysians expressed concern about how businesses are using their personal data, a figure that has remained stable over the past five years. 2 in 3 Malaysians feel that they lack control over their personal data online.
On the flipside, people are aware of the ways in which AI can contribute to a smarter and safer life. Around half of Malaysians say they expect AI smart devices to provide enhanced security and stronger data privacy controls, and these have greater appeal among the oldest generations.
Those who worry about their data privacy when thinking about AI integrations are just as likely as average to believe AI can make their mobile more efficient and to be excited about the new possibilities that AI could bring.
This highlights a paradox: while people have data concerns, they still recognise the significant benefits AI can offer. Concerns do not necessarily decrease enthusiasm, and addressing fears could increase future adoption.