Malaysians now view China more positively than the United States, according to Ipsos’ latest global survey.

Globally, 49% of respondents rated China favourably, surpassing the US at 46% — the first such shift since 2018. The US saw declining trust even among allies like Japan, South Korea, and Canada.

In Malaysia, approval of the US dipped to 49%, while China garnered stronger regional support. The US image drop is linked to fears over new tariffs and a deepening trade war.

Meanwhile, Malaysians remain cautiously optimistic about their economy, with the country’s Consumer Confidence Index staying steady despite global uncertainty. Ipsos warns this optimism could be short-lived as global tensions rise.