Press Release- Ipsos Happiness Index 2026

The findings from the Ipsos Happiness Index 2026 study reveals:

• Malaysia records higher Happiness Index Score in 2026 – up 81% in 2026 from 76% in 2025
• More than half of Malaysians say feeling appreciated drives happiness
• Personal financial concerns greatly contribute to unhappiness
• Higher income levels correlate with stronger happiness outcomes

Arun Menon, Managing Director, Ipsos Malaysia mentions:  

“Despite ongoing global uncertainties, Malaysians continue to report strong levels of happiness. Our latest findings show that Happiness Index scores in Malaysia increased by 5% this year, placing the country among the happier markets globally and reflecting a generally positive outlook among its people. 

At the heart of Malaysians’ happiness are close relationships and meaningful social connections. Feeling appreciated and loved emerges as the strongest driver of happiness, followed by relationships with family and children, highlighting the important role that community and belonging play in shaping well-being. Personal financial factors also influence how happy people feel, with it being the key driver to unhappiness across the world. Moreover, higher-income groups consistently report greater levels of happiness both globally and in Malaysia, with 87% of high-income Malaysians reporting they are happy. 

These findings suggest that while Malaysians share global concerns around personal finances, strong social connections and supportive relationships remain as key anchors of well-being. As financial pressures come and go, these social foundations remain an important source of resilience for Malaysians.”