OpenAI Says Malaysians Are Using ChatGPT For These 5 Things
It's surely a useful tool for everyone.
By Syazwan Bahri — 29 May 2025, 03:32 PM
Malaysians are increasingly integrating ChatGPT into their everyday lives
OpenAI recently revealed some impressive numbers: globally, ChatGPT now has over 500 million weekly active users, along with more than two million paying business customers.
In Malaysia, year-on-year growth for ChatGPT users is estimated at around 330%, while neighbouring countries like Vietnam and Thailand have seen even bigger jumps, up to 700%.
Across Southeast Asia, engagement is booming. Since OpenAI first launched in the region, the number of weekly ChatGPT users has tripled.
1 . Making learning and teaching a more enjoyable experience
ChatGPT has found widespread adoption in Malaysian education, serving as a helpful tool for both students and educators.
In a study involving 443 undergraduate healthcare students across Southeast Asia, usage varied: 45.8% used ChatGPT to assist with specific parts of their assignments, while 41.1% chose not to use it at all. A smaller segment, 9.3%, reported relying heavily on the AI. Common uses among students include drafting write-ups, clarifying complex concepts, and generating practice questions.
Educators, too, are tapping into ChatGPT to enhance their teaching. Many use it to personalise learning experiences, recommend supplementary reading materials, and create assessment questions, all of which help boost teaching efficiency and improve student engagement.
2. Job seekers use ChatGPT to help simplify the process
More than half of Malaysian job seekers, specifically, 51.7%, are now using AI tools to support their job search.
From crafting resumes to preparing for interviews and planning out search strategies, these tools are proving to be handy companions in the application process.
On the flip side, employers are also jumping on the AI bandwagon. About 54.3% are already using AI for early-stage hiring tasks, such as screening resumes and assessing candidates.
3. Translations and language-based learning are made easier
ChatGPT offers significant advantages for language learners, particularly in strengthening Bahasa Melayu language skills.
A study revealed that students view ChatGPT positively for its ability to help them overcome language limitations, improve communication efficiency, and simplify access to information. An average perception score of 3.337 out of 5 further highlights the tool's effectiveness in language learning.
4. "How-to" and instructables help Malaysians solve problems
Many Malaysians are increasingly turning to ChatGPT as a helpful tool for simplifying complex instructions and solving everyday problems. Its ability to process vast amounts of information and offer step-by-step guidance or multiple solutions makes it a natural fit for "how-to" queries and tackling all sorts of challenges.
5. Writing and editing blocks of text
This is one of the most fundamental and widely recognised uses of large language models like ChatGPT. Users frequently rely on it for drafting emails, writing reports and summaries, checking grammar, and refining their writing style.
OpenAI also highlighted another major category: fiction writing and creative ideation. ChatGPT comes in handy for brainstorming ideas, generating plot outlines, drafting creative content, and overcoming writer's block.
