{
  "id": 19425152,
  "title": "What Malaysians really want when eating out",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/11/what-malaysians-really-want-when-eating-out-19425152",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-11T00:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today-freemalays",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/11/11/what-malaysians-really-want-when-eating-out"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Malaysian diners prioritize cleanliness and hygiene over affordability when choosing where to eat, according to a recent nationwide study. While 82% of respondents considered cleanliness and hygiene important, affordability came in third at 78%. The research surveyed 1,964 Malaysian adults between July 3 and 24, reflecting the country's population census. Home cooking remains central to Malaysian life, with 62% relying on home-cooked or family-prepared meals. When dining out, hawker centres, food courts, mamak restaurants, and kopitiams recorded the highest average visit frequency. Malaysians are also open to trying new food trends, with 65% enjoying new food and beverage options, and Malay cuisine having the highest positive interest at 68%. While 44% had no preference between restaurant chains and independent eateries, younger consumers showed a stronger preference for independent eateries, with 30% of respondents aged 18-24 favoring them. Health-conscious eating is also a consideration, with 72% watching their sugar, oil, or portion sizes, and 88% of those aged 55 and above choosing healthier options.",
  "summary": "Price still matters, but a nationwide study suggests diners may care even more about cleanliness, flavour and consistency.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}