Kuala Lumpur:The average household size in Malaysia has decreased from 4.0 persons in 2014 to 3.8 in 2024, as revealed by the Sixth Malaysian Population and Family Survey (KPKM-6).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri highlighted that the survey findings indicate a change in family formation patterns, with men now marrying at an average age of 27.1 years and women at 24 years. Despite these changes, the desire to start a family remains robust, as over 80% of unmarried individuals expressed intentions to marry. However, a lack of suitable partners (50.6%) and financial constraints (47.2%) are major reasons for delayed marriages.
Nancy also pointed out that a significant portion of adolescents, 63.9%, have a low level of reproductive health knowledge, and 24.7% show at least three symptoms of mental health issues. For the elderly, 45.9% receive financial support from their children, underscoring the family's role as a support system in old age.
At the 2026 National Population Conference (PERKKS26), Nancy mentioned that the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) conducts interventions every five years between surveys to tailor programs and policies to current data and population needs. She noted ongoing collaborations with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Malaysia to improve the situation domestically.
Furthermore, Nancy stated that her ministry plans to present a Cabinet paper to inform the Cabinet of actions taken based on the survey findings. This paper will detail the measures, with the Cabinet expected to share results from the research evidence.
In addressing domestic abuse, Nancy identified economic pressures, poor emotional management, and family backgrounds as contributing factors. The ministry, through agencies like the Department for Women's Development and National Welfare Foundation, has implemented intervention programs and provides shelters for abuse victims. Additionally, counseling services are available for both victims and perpetrators seeking self-improvement.