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Life in Malaysia is recovering; people are going out 3X more now

Malaysia's economy is also gradually returning to pre-pandemic levels.
Malaysians going out News Asia Today

Since Malaysia lifted city-wide lockdown restrictions back in early October, life has begun returning normalcy with more people going out and about today.

According to mobility change reports by by Google, there has been a significant shift in the amount of time people are spending outdoors today.

Time spent at home has fallen significantly

Back in July 2021, Google reported an increase of time spent at home by up to 37.5%, at the height of the city-wide lock-downs.

As of 1st November 2021, this figure now stands at 12% — a drop of over 68%.

In other words, more people are going out.

Life in Malaysia is recovering; people are going out 3X more now 31
The time people are staying at home has fallen by more than 68%.

Retail and recreation is recovering

In addition to more outdoor activity, retail and recreation sectors have also begun showing signs of significant recovery.

As of 1st November 2021, traffic to retail and recreational areas are close to pre-pandemic levels, especially in dining and shopping sectors.

Back in July 2021, Google reported a 61% drop in mobility in retail and recreation areas, but this figure now stands at -12% today.

Life in Malaysia is recovering; people are going out 3X more now 32
Mobility changes for Retail and recreation is recovering in Malaysia.

Recovery to pre-pandemic levels

Malaysia is recovering, and spending is gradually rising among the population.

While it is still too early to tell if another possible lock-down could take place, it appears that the country has found a balance between controlling the pandemic and reopening its economy.

Joe Ramsay
Guest Writer at News Asia Today. I cover topics on Technology and Business.