Cover image via 
Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
As Malaysians bid farewell to a year defined by rapid change and shifting cultural tides, Google's 'Year in Search 2025' highlights their practical concerns, from financial aid to welfare schemes
Search trends show Malaysians focused on navigating daily-life challenges, especially rising living costs and government support.
Financial aid initiatives were top of mind, with the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) ranking as the second-most-searched term overall and the leading news topic.
Similarly, welfare programmes like MyKasih and the targeted fuel subsidy scheme Budi95 saw significant spikes in traffic, as households sought clarity on eligibility and how to apply.
Civil servants and B40 communities also turned to the platform for resources, driving interest in the Public Sector E-Learning (E-Pembelajaran Sektor Awam) platform and the mySalam health protection scheme.
Beyond economic concerns, 2025 was the year artificial intelligence became a daily essential for Malaysians
Google's AI assistant, Gemini, topped the overall trending list, signalling a massive shift in how people approach work, learning, and decision-making.
This enthusiasm extended to creative tools, with Pixverse AI trending among users eager to generate hyper-realistic visuals.
In fact, Malaysia has emerged as a regional leader in this space; three out of four digital consumers now interact with generative AI daily, utilising these tools for everything from academic help to SME marketing and content creation.
When it came to staying informed, Malaysians relied heavily on Google for real-time updates during major local crises
Events such as the Putra Heights pipeline explosion and the southern Selangor floods dominated national attention, with citizens using the platform to access critical safety information and check for road closures.
On the entertainment front, the nation's diverse palate was on full display
Hollywood blockbusters like Blood Brothers, Superman, and Thunderbolts led the movie charts, fuelled by passionate fan communities.
Nostalgia also played a key role, with franchises like Jurassic World Rebirth and Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning drawing large crowds, while younger audiences drove the popularity of A Minecraft Movie.
In the realm of television, Malaysians balanced their love for global hits like Squid Game and the culturally resonant Emerald Hill with a strong appreciation for local storytelling.
Homegrown dramas such as Keluarga Itu and Dia Bukan Syurga resonated deeply, reflecting a continued appetite for relatable family themes and local humour.
Finally, the personalities that captured the nation's interest offered a mix of local pride, regional intrigue, and global activism
Local singer Amira Othman saw a surge in searches following her new music release and news about her personal life.
Regionally, Indonesian star Luna Maya made headlines with news of her marriage, while global attention turned to climate activist Greta Thunberg as Malaysians tracked her recent activities.
Music fans also drove a wave of nostalgia, with searches for My Chemical Romance spiking after the announcement of their highly anticipated Kuala Lumpur concerts.
