Social Media Influencers and Politicians Rank Among Malaysia’s Least Trusted Professions

By The Malketeer 

Ipsos Survey reveals Rising Trust for some professions, but Politicians and Influencers struggle to gain Public Confidence 

In a year when public perception has shifted globally, Malaysia mirrors a trend of distrust in certain professions.

According to Ipsos’ latest survey, released on 19 December, politicians take the unenviable title of the least trusted profession in Malaysia, with 41% of respondents expressing distrust.

But politicians aren’t standing alone in the shadows—social media influencers are right behind them, with a 36% distrust rate.

The influencers’ struggle to gain trust highlights the ongoing skepticism towards the authenticity and credibility of content creators in a digital age.

While government ministers, advertising executives, and even religious leaders also face trust deficits, their distrust levels fall slightly below 36%.

Interestingly, Malaysians show lower levels of distrust for these professions compared to global averages, suggesting a unique cultural dynamic at play.

Teachers and Doctors Take the Lead

On the flip side, professions anchored in education, healthcare, and science shine brightly.

Teachers (59%) and doctors (55%) rank as the top two most trusted professions in Malaysia.

Scientists, the armed forces, and judges also round out the top five, reflecting the public’s confidence in roles that demand expertise, impartiality, and societal contribution.

Globally, these professions echo similar trust rankings, underscoring the universal appeal of credibility and societal impact.

Journalists and Bankers Climbing the Trust Ladder 

One of the more surprising findings from the Ipsos study is the rising trust in professions traditionally viewed with skepticism.

Lawyers, bankers, and journalists have seen a steady uptick in trust levels this year.

The shift signals changing public sentiment and perhaps a recognition of the evolving roles these professionals play in shaping society.

In the context of journalism, the demand for accurate and timely information could be driving the resurgence of trust in the profession.

What Does This Mean for Marketers and Brands? 

For marketers, these insights are a goldmine.

Trust remains a cornerstone of consumer behaviour, and understanding how different professions are perceived can help brands position themselves more effectively.

The distrust towards influencers, for example, highlights the importance of working with credible personalities whose values align with the target audience.

Moreover, professions enjoying rising trust—like journalists and lawyers—present new opportunities for strategic collaborations and authentic storytelling.

The Takeaway: Trust is Earned, Not Given

As Malaysia navigates its trust landscape, one thing remains clear: authenticity and societal value are key drivers of public perception.

Whether it’s a teacher inspiring the next generation or an influencer trying to connect with followers, trust is a currency that demands careful stewardship.

The Ipsos survey doesn’t just highlight the winners and losers in the trust stakes—it serves as a roadmap for how professions can rebuild and sustain public confidence in an ever-changing world.


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