*Magazine Distro Index*

Everyone has heard about the famous “Sarong Index” that was researched by one of the country's greatest mind, Royal Professor Ungku Aziz or as known to certain quarters, Pak Ungku. I may not have the time and skill to conduct an extensive reseach like Pak Ungku did but I would like to weigh in with my very own “Magazine Distro Index”.

It may sound a tad bit harsh but I do believe that the level of sophistication and percieved intelligence is directly correlated with the type of magazine being distributed in the locality. I guess my “Magazine Distro Index” index can draw some relevance from the saying “You are what you read” and “Read and you will be well read”.

It is in my honest opinion that my theory not only conincides with the previously mentioned theory but also in terms of economics of business. No business entity in their right mind would push such publications into certain areas unless they're pretty sure that the people living in the targetted area are afluent enough to understand its value and spend on the said magazine.

Urban magazine stores tend to carry a very diverse mix of magazines. From your no brainer slap-stick magazines such as Ujang, Gila-Gila and Apo?! to gossip laden mags that the female half of mankind buys by the truckload. You would also see magazines on health, vehicles, sports and also other recreational activities.

And almost exlcusively, business and finance related magazines are almost only found in the urban and city areas. In my travels around the other parts of the country outside of the urban and city area, it is almost impossible to find magazines such as Forbes, The Edge or Personal Money unless you happen to be in the rural and city areas.

I do believe that the level of afluency of a particular area can be somewhat correlated to the type of magazines that is found in the shops in the said area. With this one could gauge the level of maturity, sophistication and also afluency of the residents just by going to the nearby convenience store and look at the magazines currently on sale.

I'm not pre-judging that areas outside of the urban, city or concrete jungle are not as intelligent or sophisticated but at this present moment in time, these areas are maybe not quite there yet. With enough time, education, exposure and also knowledge, an area can easily turn from a sleepy town to a bustling city. Every city in the world started that way.

So the next time you're on your travels, have a look at the nearby shops to see the types of magazine that are being sold. Form your own opinions if my “Magazine Distro Index” has its worth and whether you agree or disagree with me, please do feel free to let me know. Such feedback can only further improve my observations ;)

Cheers!!! :D