Malaysia faces pressure from an aging population.

VTV.vn - Malaysia has been classified as an aging population country, and the number of elderly people in the country is expected to increase sharply in the coming decades.

(Photo: The Vibes)

Malaysia's Minister for Women, Family and Community Development, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, stated that demographic changes in the country are occurring at an unprecedented pace, requiring comprehensive planning. Facing the pressures of an aging population, adjustments are not limited to healthcare but also include age-friendly housing, accessible public utilities, and a stronger community support system for the elderly.

Malaysia's population has grown from 23.5 million in 2000 to nearly 34.5 million in 2025. During the same period, the proportion of people aged 60 and over increased from 6.3% to 12%, while the proportion of those aged 65 and over doubled, from 4% to 8%. These figures indicate that Malaysia is rapidly transforming into an aging society.

In a recent interview with Harian Metro, Minister Nancy stated that this trend will accelerate over the next two decades, with the population aged 60 and over projected to reach 4.8 million – equivalent to 13.3% of the population – by 2030. This figure is expected to rise to 15.1% by 2036. Meanwhile, by 2050, it is projected that one in five Malaysians will be elderly.

Elderly people at a nursing home in Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia (Photo: CNA)

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Nancy noted that Malaysia officially became an aging country in 2021 according to the United Nations definition, which classifies a country as aging when the number of people aged 65 and over accounts for more than 7% of the population. This percentage in Malaysia reached 8% in 2025 and is projected to exceed 14% by 2048.

Existing public housing, including the People's Housing Programme (PPR), still only meets the average level of age-friendly standards. Malaysian older adults face increasing challenges due to chronic illness, reduced mobility, and social isolation. At the same time, changing family structures and a higher female labor force participation rate have diminished the traditional capacity to care for elderly parents.

Many older adults still face difficulties accessing healthcare services, public transportation, and truly age-friendly neighborhoods. Meanwhile, the demand for healthcare and long-term care is expected to continue to increase.

Malaysia's rapidly aging population is placing increasing pressure on policymakers to redesign housing, enhance social security, and improve community support. This shift requires comprehensive plans that go beyond mere healthcare , encompassing the construction of suitable housing and stronger community support systems.

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Source: https://vtv.vn/malaysia-doi-mat-ap-luc-gia-hoa-dan-so-100260630085725936.htm