The solution to Malaysia's demographic challenge through parenteism

AN increasing number of young Malaysians now see having more than two children as a heavy burden.

Many choose not to marry, while some married couples prefer raising pets over having children. As a result, population growth has slowed dramatically, reaching just 0.5 per cent in 2026.

Malaysia is beginning to face the same demographic pressures as Japan and South Korea, both suffering from severe population decline due to extremely low birth rates and rapidly ageing societies.

Japan’s fertility rate has fallen to about 1.2, while South Korea’s is the lowest in the world at roughly 0.72, far below the replacement level of 2.1.

Malaysia’s fertility rate currently stands at around 1.8 and continues to fall. If this trend persists, the country could face population stagnation or even decline within the next two decades.

The implications are alarming. Without population growth and with a rising proportion of elderly citizens, Malaysia will inevitably face a shrinking workforce and growing economic strain.

Fewer working adults will have to support an expanding number of retirees, putting immense pressure on public finances and productivity. Over time, this imbalance could threaten the stability of the entire economy.

That is the path Malaysia is heading down, and the point of no return is fast approaching.

The core driver of Malaysia’s declining birth rate is economic hardship. Escalating housing prices, food inflation and childcare costs make raising children increasingly unaffordable.

The removal of fuel subsidies and the planned increase in public hospital fees further amplify the sense of hopelessness among the younger generation.

To reverse this demographic decline, bold and comprehensive steps must be taken to address the financial struggles faced by ordinary Malaysians.

In Demi Rakyat, A Book on Nation Building (2024), I proposed that a good government should be like good parents, always striving to give the best to their children so they can live fulfilling lives and realise their fullest potential.

If the government models itself after good parents, it would ensure free housing, a universal pension and free healthcare for the Rakyat, enabling every citizen to live with dignity and purpose.

I call this idea Parenteism.

By addressing housing and pension concerns, Malaysia can lift the financial burden that shackles most families.

Imagine a nation where every child receives free healthcare and education; where, upon completing their studies, they are guaranteed a home, which will allow them to focus on building their careers, nurturing their talents and raising families without fear of financial insecurity; and where, in old age, they are supported by universal pensions and comprehensive eldercare.

In such a society, young couples would naturally feel confident and motivated to have more children. This economic renewal could be the catalyst that reverses Malaysia’s demographic decline.

Parenteism may well be the only way to save Malaysia from the edge of a demographic cliff.

Khoo Kay Ping is a lawyer and an author based in Penang.

The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sinar Daily.