In a survey conducted in March for a forthcoming US-based Pew Research Center report, 82 percent of Malaysians are satisfied with the way things are going in the country.

The percentage was up from 76 percent in 2007. Some 16 percent said they were dissatisfied.

"In 2007 the last time we asked this in Malaysia, 76 percent were satisfied and 21 percent dissatisfied, according to our 40-country survey," said Bruce Stokes, director of global economic attitudes at the Pew Research Center.

In terms of the economic situation of country, 85 percent described Malaysia's economic situation good, up from 76 percent in 2007.

Rising prices a major concern

On priority for the government, 38 percent hoped the government would look into rising prices, 14 percent said lack of employment opportunities, gap between rich and poor (six percent), public debt 13 percent and all equally 28 percent.

“Only the Chinese (China) are more pleased than the Malaysians with the direction of their country and the state of their economy in the 40-country survey,” said Stokes.

Pew Research Center is a non-partisan fact-tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping America and the world.

It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research and does not take policy positions.

- Bernama