Climate Change Impacts Life Expectancy in ASEAN+3 Countries

Strategic Insights -

A new study published by researchers at Universiti Malaysia Perlis examines the effects of socioeconomic, political, and environmental factors on life expectancy in ASEAN+3 countries between 1995 and 2021. The research highlighted the significant negative impacts of corruption and CO2 emissions on life expectancy, while labor income and equitable distribution of wealth have a positive association. The study emphasizes the need for effective governance, environmental regulations, and sustainable development practices to mitigate climate change impacts and improve life expectancy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Reduced life expectancy in ASEAN+3 countries is attributed to various factors, including income inequality, poverty, inadequate access to education and healthcare, poor governance, pollution, climate change-related risks, and natural disasters (Research by Universiti Malaysia Perlis).
  • Corruption perception index and CO2 emissions have significant negative effects on life expectancy in both developed and developing countries (Discover Sustainability, 2025).
  • Labor income shows a positive and significant association with life expectancy in both models (Discover Sustainability, 2025).
  • Implementation of policies promoting equitable distribution of wealth and access to essential resources and services is essential to improve life expectancy (Discover Sustainability, 2025).
  • Effective governance, transparency, and fight against corruption are crucial to ensure efficient allocation of resources and increase public trust in healthcare systems (Discover Sustainability, 2025).
  • Enforcing environmental regulations to reduce pollution levels and promoting sustainable development practices are critical (Discover Sustainability, 2025).
  • Implementing measures to mitigate climate change impacts, including adaptation strategies and transitioning towards cleaner and renewable energy sources, is essential (Discover Sustainability, 2025).
  • The researchers emphasize the importance of access to clean water and sanitation, as well as healthcare facilities, to improve life expectancy (Research by Universiti Malaysia Perlis).
  • The study highlights the need for equitable distribution of wealth, essential resources, and services (Discover Sustainability, 2025).
  • The paper explores the impacts of socioeconomic, political, and environmental determinants on life expectancy in ASEAN+3 nations (Discover Sustainability, 2025).

Statistics:

  • Life expectancy in ASEAN+3 countries declined significantly due to various factors (Research by Universiti Malaysia Perlis).
  • Corruption perception index had a significant negative effect on life expectancy in both models (Discover Sustainability, 2025).
  • CO2 emissions had a significant negative effect on life expectancy in both models (Discover Sustainability, 2025).
  • Labor income showed a positive and significant association with life expectancy in both models (Discover Sustainability, 2025).
  • 1995-2021 is the period covered in the study (Research by Universiti Malaysia Perlis).
  • ASEAN+3 countries are the focus of the study (Research by Universiti Malaysia Perlis).

Sources:

  • Discover Sustainability, 2025,6(1):1-18.
  • Universiti Malaysia Perlis (Research by Universiti Malaysia Perlis).
  • https://doi-org.sdpl.idm.oclc.org/10.1007/s43621-025-01472-7.
  • Noorazeela Zainol Abidin, Faculty of Business & Communication, Universiti Malaysia Perlis, UniCITI Alam Campus, Sungai Chuchuh.
  • Nuraini Abdullah, Rosmah Nizam, Mai Syaheera Miau Shaari, co-authors of the research paper.
  • NewsRx LLC (2025).
  • Global Warming Focus, October 20, 2025; p 122.