New data from The World Factbook – Central Intelligence Agency highlights a worrying trend: obesity is a big problem in Southeast Asia.
Malaysia, especially, stands out as the second country in the area struggling with a lot of people dealing with weight problems.
What about the other SEAs?
From 2016 to 2024, Brunei takes the lead with a shocking 28.2% of its people facing obesity. Malaysia isn’t far behind, coming in second with 19.7% of its population dealing with weight issues.
The numbers show a concerning pattern in Southeast Asia. Singapore and Thailand both have obesity rates of 11.6%, while countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia also face their own weight-related health challenges.
Vietnam has the lowest obesity rate in Southeast Asia, at just 1.7%. This big difference shows there could be varying lifestyles, diets, and access to healthcare throughout the region.
Timor-Leste is at the bottom of the list, showing a lower obesity rate compared to its neighbours in the region. Still, it’s crucial to keep an eye on these trends to make sure people in Southeast Asia stay healthy.
Southeast Asia’s got a vibrant mix of cultures and history, but with obesity rates going up, it’s a wake-up call to focus on health. By working together on this, we can pave the way for a healthier, brighter future for all.
