KUALA LUMPUR, November 3 – Malaysians are getting married later and living in smaller households, according to findings from the Sixth Malaysian Population and Family Survey (KPKM-6).
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the average household size fell from 4.0 people in 2014 to 3.8 in 2024.
The survey also found that men married for the first time at an average age of 27.1 years. For women, the average age was 24.
Financial Pressure and Finding a Partner
Despite these changes, many unmarried Malaysians still hope to get married.
Nancy said more than eight in 10 unmarried individuals surveyed intended to marry.
However, finding a suitable partner and managing financial pressure remain major challenges.
The survey found that 50.6 per cent cited the lack of a suitable partner as a reason for delaying marriage. Another 47.2 per cent pointed to financial constraints.
Survey Highlights Youth Health Concerns
The findings also raised concerns about reproductive health knowledge among adolescents.
Nancy said 63.9 per cent of adolescents had low levels of reproductive health knowledge.
In addition, 24.7 per cent showed at least three symptoms associated with mental health issues.
These findings highlight the need for continued education and support programmes for young people.
Families Continue to Support Older People
The survey also showed that families remain an important source of financial support for older people.
According to Nancy, 45.9 per cent of elderly people received financial assistance from their children.
She shared the findings at the 2026 National Population Conference (PERKKS26) in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday.
Government to Review Population Policies
Nancy said the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) reviews population needs and develops programmes between major surveys.
These reviews take place every five years. They help the government plan policies based on current data and changing social needs.
She added that the ministry would submit a Cabinet paper outlining measures taken in response to the survey findings.
The ministry also works with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Malaysia to strengthen its programmes and policies.
Ministry Continues Efforts to Address Domestic Abuse
Separately, Nancy discussed factors that may contribute to domestic abuse.
These include financial pressure, difficulties managing emotions and family background.
She said the ministry and its agencies provide support through intervention programmes and shelters for abuse victims.
Counselling services are also available for victims and for perpetrators who are willing to seek help.
Source : BERNAMA | Rewritten By Minutesmy
