Speaking to FMT, Nik Norliati Fitri Md Nor said the trend of a declining marriage rate reflects the changing needs of Malaysians and societal norms.
“An analysis indicates that many choose not to marry as they value personal freedom and prioritise a balanced life without the constraints of major commitments,” said the researcher in demography and ageing population at Universiti Sains Malaysia.
“The rising costs associated with marriage, such as wedding expenses, housing, and post-marriage living costs further add to the pressures faced by the younger generation,” she added.
Last month, Utusan Malaysia reported that the country’s marriage rate decreased by 12.5% to 188,100 in 2023 compared with 215,022 in 2022.
Nik Norliati also said factors like generational trauma or fear of divorce can play a significant role in shaping an individual’s perspective on marriage.
She added this is especially true for individuals who grew up in problematic family environments or have witnessed marital conflicts.
“These negative experiences often create the perception that marriage does not necessarily guarantee happiness,” she said.
Nik Norliati said the trend could also have significant implications for Malaysia’s social and economic structure.
“For a start, delaying or avoiding marriage would cause a decline in birth rates and accelerate Malaysia’s advance to an ageing population status,” she said.
She added this will result in a shortage of young people needed to sustain the workforce, placing additional pressure on the nation’s economy.
Nik Norliati suggested that the government offers direct financial assistance, provides bigger tax relief, and subsidises education and childcare to alleviate the financial burden of young couples.
She said the relevant ministries should also establish high-quality, affordable childcare centres and introduce public education programmes to promote the benefits of family life, while raising awareness of social responsibility within the community.
Clinical psychologist Shireen Olikh said more people are choosing to focus on their career and personal growth.
“This comes with a mindset that marriage would get in the way of their ambition and personal development, as it would limit their freedom and aspirations,” she told FMT.
She disagreed that such decline stems from generational trauma, saying that some may recognise that they are already living a fulfilling life on their own and do not view marriage as the key to being complete.
Olikh said societal attitudes towards marriage have evolved and it is seen as a personal choice rather than a necessity, adding that what society deems as normal is also constantly changing.
“It was not ‘normal’ to have a smartphone 30 years ago, but now it is considered odd if one does not have a smartphone. Similarly, opting not to get married can be considered as normal human behaviour,” she said.