Stress is often associated with the workplace, and many believe it to be a frequent and overwhelming experience. However, a recent study has revealed that work-related stress in Malaysia is significantly lower than commonly perceived.
According to the State of the Global Workplace 2025 report by Gallup, only 19% of Malaysians said they experience stress at work on a daily basis. This places Malaysia seventh in Southeast Asia and makes it the third least stressed nation in the region, behind Indonesia (15%) and Vietnam (13%). At the other end of the scale, Myanmar (50%), the Philippines (47%) and Singapore (43%) reported the highest daily work stress levels. Brunei and Timor-Leste were not part of the study.
The report also looked into other work-related emotions among Malaysians, finding that 16% feel anger, 15% experience sadness and 17% report loneliness every day while at work.
Despite these emotional challenges, 62% of Malaysians believe now is a good time to find a job, showing optimism in the job market. However, 34% are considering resigning to pursue better opportunities elsewhere.
The findings are based on data from the Gallup World Poll, which has surveyed over 160 countries and regions since 2005 through annual face-to-face or telephone interviews.
