This year we surveyed 85,908 people from six ASEAN countries, predominantly from the youth (77%), which is defined as those aged between 16 and 35. Some 56% of respondents were female and 10% were business owners.

The inclusion of respondents over 35 in this year’s report is to explore the broader impact of the pandemic and to understand how different age groups are interacting and supporting each other to maximize the benefits of digital transformation for all.

1. The pandemic continues to cause severe impacts, both economically and mentally, particularly to MSMEs and women.

– Some 60% of people surveyed reported a decline in income and savings during the pandemic, with over 40% reporting a significant deterioration. In addition, 68% of surveyed MSME owners reported a decline in income.

– Those in the dining and tourism sector were the most severely impacted. Even workers in sectors such as trade and logistics, where most new jobs have reportedly been created, experienced a decline in incomes.

– Social, mental and physical outcomes also took a hit during the pandemic, with women, in particular, reporting substantial declines.