Child-free marriage trend unhealthy, harmful to family institution, says Johor exco rep

ISKANDAR PUTERI: The trend of child-free marriages among young couple is unhealthy and can be harmful to the family institution, says Khairin Nisa Ismail.

The Johor women, family and community development committee chairman added while there were husbands and wives desperately wanting a child of their own, unfortunately there were some quarters that have made “child free” marriages a popular trend.

“Every married couple longs for the presence of a child to bring joy to their marriage. However, not all couples are lucky as some have to wait for years while there are those who could not get a child due to health factors.

“Based on data from the Statistics Department Malaysia, in the first quarter of 2024, there have been 106,386 births compared to 117,413 births on first quarter of last year, which is a 9.4% decrease,” she said.

Khairin Nisa said this in her speech before officiating at the state level Parents Day celebration held at Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP) headquarters here on Thursday (July 11).

She added that being a parent was a full time duty that comes with a very big responsibility that needs to be borne throughout their life because their love and sacrifice never ends.

“Taking responsibility as a mother and father in this modern era is very challenging and complex because not only is it challenging from the emotional and physical aspect but also have to deal with surrounding pressures,” she said.

She added that based upon a survey made by the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), many reasons were given by couples on challenges in raising a child.

Khairin Nisa said among the reasons were high cost of living, financial problem, difficulties in finding balance between work and family, no rest, the child’s education needs, work pressure and low income.

“Whatever the reasons given for this 'child free' culture, it is seen as very unhealthy and can be harmful towards the role of family institutions.

“That is why every married couples nowadays, in particular the younger ones, must equip themselves with the knowledge of parenting skills,” she added.

Khairin Nisa urged married couples to get in touch with Yayasan Pembangunan Keluarga Darul Ta’zim and LPPKN that provides advice and guidance for them in wanting to have a child.