Trust plays a vital role in shaping how people perceive professions, from those in public service to industries that impact everyday life.
While some roles naturally earn high levels of trust due to their responsibilities, others face skepticism and doubt.
But who do Malaysians trust the most, and which professions struggle to gain public confidence?
A recent study by market research firm Ipsos Sdn Bhd (Trust in Professions 2024) sheds light on this question.
It reveals that while teachers and doctors rank as the most trusted professions in Malaysia, politicians and social media influencers find themselves at the bottom of the list.
M’sians Trust Politicians & Influencers The Least
Not all professions are viewed equally, and some face significant challenges in earning public trust. According to the study, the least trusted professions in Malaysia are:
- Politicians – 41% distrust
- Social media influencers – 36% distrust
- Government ministers – 35% distrust
- Advertising executives – 30% distrust
- Religious leaders – 30% distrust
This distrust is not unique to Malaysia. Globally, politicians fare even worse, with 58% of respondents worldwide identifying them as the least trustworthy profession.
Ipsos noted, “Approximately half of the global population lacks trust in politicians, social media influencers, and government ministers. However, Malaysians generally exhibit slightly lower levels of distrust compared to the global average.”
The survey highlights a significant gap between these professions and others that Malaysians are more inclined to trust.
Teachers and Doctors: Malaysia’s Most Trusted
On the other hand, the survey found that professions that involve nurturing, healing, and knowledge-sharing are held in high regard by Malaysians.
The most trusted professions in Malaysia include:
- Teachers – 59% trust
- Doctors – 55% trust
- Scientists – 49% trust
- Military personnel – 49% trust
- Judges – 46% trust
These professions, often seen as pillars of society, reflect the public’s confidence in those who contribute to education, health, and justice.
Other professions also received varying levels of trust:
- Police officers – 42% trust
- Bankers – 40% trust
- News anchors – 40% trust
- Lawyers – 39% trust
- Waitstaff – 38% trust
Interestingly, the study noted that globally, trust in doctors, scientists, and waitstaff is slightly higher, with trust levels at 58%, 56%, and 44%, respectively.
Connecting the Dots
The contrasting trust levels between these professions highlight society’s expectations and experiences.
Professions tied to leadership and influence often struggle with public perception, while those connected to education and health consistently earn respect.
About the Study
The Trust in Professions 2024 survey, conducted online from May 24 to June 7, involved 23,530 respondents from 32 countries.
The findings offer a window into how trust is distributed among various professions, both in Malaysia and globally.
As the results reveal, trust is not just about the roles people play but also how they fulfil their responsibilities. Whether it’s teaching, healing, or representing the public, maintaining integrity and credibility is key to gaining and preserving trust.
