Malaysia is on the cusp of a significant demographic shift, with the country expected to become an ageing nation by 2030. This transition is marked by an increasing number of residents aged 60 years and above, reflecting broader global trends of ageing populations. The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) has released its Current Population Estimates for 2024, shedding light on these evolving demographics and what they mean for the future of Malaysia.
Current Demographics: A Snapshot of Malaysia’s Ageing Population
As of 2024, Malaysia’s total population stands at approximately 34.1 million people. Among these, 2.6 million are aged 65 and above, accounting for 7.7% of the population. This marks a significant rise from previous years and places Malaysia firmly on the path towards an ageing society.
Perak leads the nation with the highest percentage of residents aged 60 and over, at 14.9%, and 9.9% of its population aged 65 or older. This trend is indicative of broader national patterns, with the overall population of those aged 60 and above increasing to 3.9 million (11.6%) in 2024, up from 3.8 million (11.3%) in 2023.
Projections and Implications
Based on population projections for 2010-2040, Malaysia is expected to reach the threshold of an ageing nation by 2030, when the population aged 60 and over will surpass 15% of the total population. This projection aligns with international definitions by the United Nations, which considers a society ageing when 7% of its population is aged 65 years and older.
Life Expectancy and Regional Variations
The DOSM report also highlights improvements in life expectancy. The life expectancy at birth in Malaysia increased to 74.8 years in 2023, reflecting better healthcare and living conditions. However, this increase in life expectancy contributes to the growing number of elderly residents, further accelerating the ageing trend.
Despite the national trend towards an ageing population, regional variations exist. Sabah has the highest proportion of youth, with 33.9% of its population aged between 15 and 30 years. Conversely, Putrajaya has the highest percentage of residents aged 14 years and under, at 34.7%.
The National Response: Policies and Plans
In response to these demographic changes, Malaysia has implemented several policies and plans aimed at addressing the needs of its ageing population. The National Senior Citizens Policy (DWEN) and the National Senior Citizens Action Plan (PTWEN) are designed to enhance the well-being of senior citizens through various initiatives.
These policies focus on ensuring that senior citizens have access to adequate healthcare, social support, and opportunities for active participation in society. The government is also working on improving infrastructure and services to support the elderly, including age-friendly housing and transportation.
Challenges and Opportunities
The shift towards an ageing population presents several challenges and opportunities for Malaysia. Key challenges include ensuring sustainable healthcare systems, providing adequate social security, and creating an inclusive environment for the elderly. The rising number of elderly residents will place increased demand on healthcare services and social support systems, requiring substantial investments and policy adjustments.
However, the ageing population also presents opportunities for economic and social development. The elderly can contribute to society in various ways, including through volunteer work, mentorship, and continued participation in the workforce. Leveraging the experience and skills of older adults can drive innovation and economic growth.
Preparing for the Future
As Malaysia prepares for this demographic shift, it is crucial to adopt a holistic approach that addresses the multifaceted needs of an ageing population. This includes:
- Healthcare and Wellness: Ensuring access to quality healthcare and promoting healthy lifestyles among the elderly.
- Economic Participation: Encouraging the continued economic participation of older adults through flexible work arrangements and lifelong learning opportunities.
- Social Inclusion: Creating inclusive communities that value the contributions of the elderly and provide social support networks.
- Infrastructure and Services: Developing age-friendly infrastructure and services, including accessible transportation and housing.
- Policy and Governance: Strengthening policies and governance structures to effectively manage the demographic transition and support the needs of the ageing population.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s journey towards becoming an ageing nation by 2030 is marked by significant demographic changes that present both challenges and opportunities. By implementing proactive policies and fostering an inclusive environment, Malaysia can ensure that its ageing population continues to thrive and contribute to the nation’s development. As the country navigates this transition, it will be essential to balance the needs of the elderly with broader societal goals, creating a sustainable and inclusive future for all.
