TikTok contributed RM20 billion to Malaysia’s digital economy in 2025, supporting 147,000 jobs and empowering over 1.8 million local businesses on its platform.
KUALA LUMPUR: TikTok contributed approximately RM20 billion in gross value added to Malaysia’s digital economy in 2025.
According to the Malaysia Socioeconomic Impact Report 2025 by Kearney, this accounted for about 4% of the nation’s digital economy and nearly 1% of its nominal GDP.
The platform’s ecosystem supported an estimated 147,000 jobs nationwide.
Economy Minister Datuk Seri Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said digital platforms are opening wider opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises and content creators.
“Platforms such as TikTok are showing that digital participation can translate into real economic value by expanding opportunities for MSMEs, empowering creators and opening new pathways for income and entrepreneurship,” he said.
He added that this development supports the government’s aspirations under Malaysia MADANI and the 13th Malaysia Plan, which emphasises inclusive and sustainable digital growth.
Kearney partner Gareth Pereira said the study showed the TikTok ecosystem had evolved beyond entertainment to become an economic catalyst.
The report noted TikTok Shop hosts more than 1.8 million local businesses and has trained over 100,000 homegrown MSMEs with government partners.
About 97% of businesses surveyed view TikTok as an important source of revenue.
Many reported gaining new skills in digital marketing, content creation and LIVE selling through the platform.
Entrepreneur Munsur bin Ramli shared how TikTok Shop revived his business after an illness in 2022.
“From having no sales at the start, I’m now making RM1,000 a day,” he said.
Creator Sandra Hanayu reflected on her transition from the aviation industry to full-time content creation.
“This shift allowed me to support my parents and fund my younger brother’s autism treatment,” she said.
The report found nearly 35% of content creators surveyed identified as full-time creators.
About 45% reported earnings above Malaysia’s minimum wage from the platform alone.
A total of 4.5 million Malaysian creators earned income via TikTok LIVE between October 2024 and 2025.
TikTok Public Policy Head for Malaysia, Firdaus Fadzil, said the platform remains committed to supporting Malaysian creators and businesses.
