ARAU, Aug 11 — Malaysia’s total fertility rate (TFR) dropped sharply to 1.7 children per woman in 2023, down from 4.0 in 1980, signalling a demographic shift toward an ageing population, the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) said.
LPPKN director-general Datuk Abdul Shukur Abdullah attributed the decline to lifestyle changes, rising living costs, delayed marriages and a growing preference for smaller families.
“Increased participation of women in higher education and the workforce also influences family planning decisions. Financial pressures, career priorities, reproductive health issues and infertility are key factors that must be addressed holistically,” he said.
His speech was delivered by LPPKN Research, Population and Family Division director Adzmel Mahmod at the Perlis Population Seminar 2025, held in conjunction with World Population Day here today.
To combat the fertility decline, Shukur said the government has implemented the Fertility Treatment Assistance and Infertility Advocacy initiative, which includes assistance such as intrauterine insemination to increase birth rates and improve public awareness on fertility issues.
