Malaysia’s Ageing Population: A Silver Wave We Must Embrace

Dr. Mastura Mohd. Sopian

Medical Lecturer / Family Medicine Specialist

Department of Clinical Medicine, IPPT, USM

Malaysia’s Ageing Population: A Silver Wave We Must Embrace

Malaysians are living longer, but are we prepared for an ageing nation? As life expectancy rises, so do the challenges in healthcare, economy, and social care. It’s time to rethink how we support our elderly and build a future where growing old is celebrated, not feared. Malaysia is steadily moving towards becoming an ageing population. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, the life expectancy at birth in 2024 is 75.2 years, with males at 73.0 years and females at 77.8 years (Department of Statistics Malaysia, 2024). However, this positive indicator of improved healthcare and living standards presents a unique set of challenges that require a holistic approach.

The ageing population issue is diversified and complex. A systematic review of ageing trends in Malaysia highlights that “falling fertility rates combined with rising life expectancy have significantly altered Malaysia’s population structure” (Ghani & Yaacob, 2024). Individual health status, disabilities, economic stability, and community support systems intertwine to shape this demographic shift. Individual health status, physical disabilities, and chronic medical conditions are significant personal factors. Due to physical and cognitive decline, the elderly often require more specialised healthcare and assistance with daily living activities. Economic stability is crucial in ensuring a comfortable and dignified ageing process. Factors such as adequate income, pension schemes, access to affordable medical insurance, and housing property rights play a vital role in securing the elderly’s financial well-being. Beyond personal and economic aspects, social factors heavily influence the ageing population scenario. Community support systems, accessibility to elder-friendly infrastructure, and opportunities for social engagement are necessary to prevent isolation and ensure quality of life for older adults.

Malaysia’s healthcare advancements are evident. Tengku Abdul Hamid and Yusof (2011) note that “modern medical facilities and improved living standards have contributed to increased longevity, yet the quality of life in old age is often hindered by inadequate elderly care systems.” Advancements in medical treatments and the availability of modern healthcare facilities in Malaysia have significantly contributed to the increased life expectancy. The country’s healthcare sector has seen continuous improvements in geriatric care, chronic disease management, and rehabilitative services, making it possible for more elderly individuals to lead healthier and more active lives. Older adults face unique concerns that require focused attention. Norazman et al. (2024) highlighted that "chronic illnesses, malnutrition, and a lack of geriatric specialist services" remain critical gaps in ensuring healthy ageing by 2030. Therefore, vital strategies include promoting mobility, ensuring access to proper care, and enhancing mental and social engagement. Encouraging older adults to stay mobile promotes independence, improves physical health, and enhances their overall sense of dignity. Ensuring availability of quality personal care and proper medical attention, including regular health screenings and management of chronic illnesses, is vital. Proper nutrition is essential to maintain energy levels, prevent malnutrition, and support immune function among the elderly. Participation in recreational activities, spiritual engagement, and community programs plays a crucial role in supporting the mental and emotional well-being of older adults.

Rahman and Ahmad (2021) warn that “an increase in the old-age dependency ratio poses economic threats, with GDP growth potentially reducing by 6.6% for every 1% increase in dependency ratio.” Hence, Malaysia needs to foster policies that support economic sustainability, healthcare accessibility, and social inclusiveness for the elderly population. Strengthening policies that support elderly care, improving accessibility to healthcare and social services, and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion for older adults will be key to navigating this demographic transition.

References
1.Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). (2024). Abridged Life Tables, Malaysia, 2024. Putrajaya: Department of Statistics Malaysia. Retrieved from https://www.statistics.gov.my/portal-main/release-content/abridged-life-tables-malaysia-2024
2.BERNAMA. (2024, July 24). Life Expectancy in Malaysia Rises to 75.2 Years in 2024. BERNAMA News. Retrieved from https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php?id=2346114
3.Ghani, N. A. A., & Yaacob, N. A. (2024). Population Ageing in Malaysia: Economic and Policy Challenges from a Systematic Review (2010-2024). International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), VIII(VI), 224-230. Retrieved from https://rsisinternational.org/journals/ijriss/articles/population-ageing-in-malaysia-economic-and-policy-challenges-from-a-systematic-review-2010-2024/
4.Rahman, H. A., & Ahmad, N. A. (2021). Ageing Population in Malaysia: The Implications of Old-Age Dependency on Economic Growth. Frontiers in Public Health, 9, Article 731554. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.731554
5.Tengku Abdul Hamid, T. A., & Yusof, N. A. (2011). The Problems and Challenges of the Aging Population of Malaysia. ResearchGate. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/230586535_The_Problems_and_Challenges_of_the_Aging_Population_of_Malaysia
6.Norazman, M. R., Adznam, S. N. A., Jamaluddin, R., et al. (2024). Healthy Ageing in Malaysia by 2030: Public Health Policy, Challenges and Actions. Frontiers in Public Health, 12, Article 11376998. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2024.11376998