Malaysia has produced a wide range of influential figures across diverse sectors, from politics and business to entertainment and sports. This list ranks the Top 10 Most Popular Malaysians based on their global recognition, impact in their respective fields, and contributions to both Malaysia and the international community.
The evaluation considers several factors:
Global Influence: How these individuals have impacted global industries or politics.
Public Recognition: Measured by international media attention, awards, or the scale of their following.
Contribution to Malaysia: Their role in shaping Malaysia’s image or contributing to its development.
With this in mind, here’s a ranked list of Malaysians who have made their mark both at home and abroad:
1. Mahathir Mohamad
Dr. Mahathir
Occupation: Politician, Former Prime Minister
Why Popular: Dr. Mahathir Mohamad is one of Malaysia’s most transformative leaders, serving as Prime Minister for over two decades across two terms. Known for his strong economic policies that industrialized Malaysia, Mahathir has also been a vocal critic of Western policies and has positioned himself as a leader for the Global South. His leadership during the Asian Financial Crisis and his unexpected return to politics at the age of 92 cemented his status as a global political figure. His longevity in the political arena and bold stance on international issues make him widely recognized and respected.
Malaysia’s Highest Honor Conferred: Tun
2. Anwar Ibrahim
Anwar Ibrahim
Occupation: Politician, Current Prime Minister
Why Popular: Anwar Ibrahim’s political journey is one of perseverance and struggle. A former deputy to Mahathir, his imprisonment on charges that were seen as politically motivated gained him global sympathy and recognition. Anwar is known for his push for reform and clean governance, which resonated with many Malaysians. His eventual rise to Prime Minister in 2022 marked a major victory for his decades-long fight for justice and democracy. His international ties and advocacy for Muslim democracy have made him a well-known figure in political circles around the world.
Malaysia’s Highest Honor Conferred: Daruk Seri
3. Michelle Yeoh
Michelle Yeoh 楊紫瓊
Occupation: Actress
Why Popular: Michelle Yeoh Choo Keng 楊紫瓊 is one of the most recognized Malaysian figures on the international stage. Initially gaining fame in Hong Kong action films, she transitioned to Hollywood and gained global fame through movies like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Crazy Rich Asians. In 2023, she became the first Malaysian to win an Academy Award for her role in Everything Everywhere All at Once, cementing her status as a trailblazer for Asian actors in Western cinema. Her ability to seamlessly transition between Eastern and Western film industries has made her a global icon.
Malaysia’s Highest Honor Conferred: Tan Sri
4. Jimmy Choo
Jimmy Choo Yeang Keat
Occupation: Fashion Designer
Why Popular: Jimmy Choo Yeang Keat is a household name in the world of luxury fashion, with his shoe designs becoming a staple for Hollywood stars, royalty, and high society figures around the world. Choo’s ability to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern luxury aesthetics propelled him to international fame. His brand, Jimmy Choo, is synonymous with elegance and style. Although he sold his share of the business, the brand continues to be a global fashion powerhouse. Choo’s contributions have placed Malaysia on the global fashion map.
Malaysia’s Highest Honor Conferred: Datuk
5. Nicol David
Nicol David
Occupation: Squash Player
Why Popular: Nicol Ann David is widely regarded as one of the greatest squash players of all time. She held the world number one ranking for a record 112 months and won eight World Squash Championship titles. Nicol’s incredible success has not only brought her individual glory but also shone a spotlight on Malaysia’s sporting talents on the world stage. Her dominance in squash and her modest, humble demeanor have earned her fans globally, particularly in countries where squash is a major sport. Nicol David is the G.O.A.T. of squash.
Malaysia’s Highest Honor Conferred: Datuk
6. Robert Kuok
Robert Kuok Hock Nien
Occupation: Business Magnate
Why Popular: Robert Kuok Hock Nien 郭鹤年 is Malaysia’s richest man and one of Asia’s most respected business tycoons. He built his fortune primarily in the sugar industry, earning the nickname “Sugar King of Asia.” His business empire spans hotels, real estate, and shipping, including the creation of the Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. Kuok is well known for his sharp business acumen, quiet philanthropy, and significant influence in Asia’s economic landscape. His contributions to the global business world have earned him a respected place among the world’s elite.
Malaysia’s Highest Honor Conferred: Tan Sri
7. Tony Fernandes
Anthony Francis Fernandes
Occupation: Entrepreneur, CEO of AirAsia
Why Popular: Tony Fernandes revolutionized air travel in Asia by transforming AirAsia into the region’s largest low-cost airline. His business model made air travel accessible to millions of people in Asia and beyond. Fernandes is known for his innovation, risk-taking, and charisma, all of which contributed to his success in making AirAsia a globally recognized brand. Beyond aviation, his ventures in sports and entertainment, including ownership of the Queens Park Rangers football club, have expanded his international influence.
Malaysia’s Highest Honor Conferred: Tan Sri
8. Lee Chong Wei
Lee Chong Wei
Occupation: Badminton Player
Why Popular: Lee Chong Wei 李宗伟 is a badminton legend, widely considered one of the greatest players in the sport’s history. He won three Olympic silver medals and spent a record 348 weeks ranked as the world number one. His longstanding rivalry with China’s Lin Dan was one of the most celebrated in sports, captivating fans globally. Even after his retirement, Lee remains a national hero in Malaysia and continues to be a prominent figure in the badminton community worldwide.
Malaysia’s Highest Honor Conferred: Datuk
9. Ronnie Chieng
Ron
Ronnie Chieng
Occupation: Comedian, Actor
Why Popular: Ronny Xin Yi Chieng 钱信伊 is one of the most recognized Malaysian comedians in the global entertainment industry. Known for his sharp, observational humor, he gained prominence as a correspondent on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, where he often addresses cultural issues and stereotypes. His unique blend of wit and cultural insight was further showcased in his Netflix stand-up special, Ronny Chieng: Asian Comedian Destroys America!, which solidified his international appeal. He also appeared in popular films like Crazy Rich Asians and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, enhancing his status as a leading Asian comedian in Hollywood.
10. Zang Toi
Zang Toi
Occupation: Fashion Designer
Why Popular: Zang Toi is one of Malaysia’s most successful fashion designers, recognized internationally for his luxurious, glamorous designs. After launching his own label in New York in 1989, Toi quickly gained prominence in the fashion industry, with his creations being worn by celebrities and featured in high-profile fashion shows. His ability to blend elegance with bold statements has won him accolades globally. Toi’s achievements have positioned him as one of the leading figures in haute couture, making him a proud ambassador of Malaysian talent on the world stage.
Malaysia’s Highest Honor Conferred: Datuk
1. P. Ramlee
P. Ramlee
Occupation: Actor, Filmmaker, Musician
Why Popular: P. Ramlee is considered one of the most iconic figures in the history of Malaysian entertainment. Known for his work as an actor, director, singer, and songwriter, P. Ramlee made significant contributions to the Malaysian film and music industry during the 1950s and 1960s. His films, such as Bujang Lapok and Ibu Mertuaku, remain beloved classics. He was not only a cultural icon in Malaysia but also in other parts of the Malay-speaking world. His versatility, charm, and the emotional depth of his work have left a lasting legacy.
Malaysia’s Highest Honor Conferred: Tan Sri Datuk Amar
Exclusion From The Top 10 List
This list highlights Malaysians who have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also achieved global recognition. From leaders like Mahathir Mohamad and Anwar Ibrahim who shaped Malaysia’s political landscape, to international icons like Michelle Yeoh and Jimmy Choo, these individuals have helped to elevate Malaysia’s standing on the world stage across industries ranging from politics to entertainment and business.
Henry Golding doesn’t make the top 10 list of most popular Malaysians primarily because he holds British nationality and spent a significant part of his life in the UK. While he is proud of his Malaysian heritage and frequently acknowledges it, his career and public identity are more closely associated with his British background. As a result, despite his global fame and Malaysian roots, his citizenship and international image lean more towards Britain than Malaysia, distinguishing him from individuals who have been more directly involved in shaping Malaysian culture, politics, or sports.
11. Henry Golding
Henry Golding
Occupation: Actor
Why Popular: Henry Golding became an international sensation after his starring role in Crazy Rich Asians, one of Hollywood’s first major films featuring a predominantly Asian cast. Born in Malaysia to an Iban mother and British father, Golding’s blend of good looks, charm, and acting skills quickly made him a sought-after talent in Hollywood. He went on to star in other films like Last Christmas and Snake Eyes. Golding’s success in Hollywood has made him one of the few Malaysian actors with truly global recognition.