Share of aging population Malaysia 2014-2022

In 2022, it was projected that the share of the Malaysian population aged over 65 years would be at 7.9 percent, an increase compared to 7.4 percent in the previous year. Malaysia is currently facing the prospect of an aging population, and the latest statistical data predicted this to be happening as soon as in 2030.

Aging population by 2030?

An aging population is defined as one in which those aged 65 years and above make up at least 15 percent of the total population. According to a statement by Malaysia’s Chief Statistician in July 2019, the 15 percent threshold would be crossed in 2030. The past ten years have seen a change in Malaysia’s age structure. The share of the population between 0 to 14 years had been decreasing steadily, while the inverse was true for those aged 65 and above. The average age of the Malaysian population reflected this trend, and was expected to reach 34.1 years in 2030, up from 28.2 years in 2015.

Is Malaysia ready for an aging society?

Academics fear that Malaysian society would not be ready to meet the needs of a rapidly aging society. In a survey on aging, more than 70 percent of Malaysian respondents felt that it was the duty of the young to take care of the elderly. This mindset places the burden of care on a shrinking base of young people. Not only that, it could contribute to the underdevelopment of social services for the elderly. Already, more Malaysians seemed pessimistic about aging. Existing problems such as a lack of professional caregivers, affordable care, and elderly-friendly housing, especially in rural areas, need to be quickly addressed before the silver tsunami overwhelms the country.