Nancy: Stigma keeps youth from accessing accurate information
PETALING JAYA: Gaps remain in young adults’ understanding of reproductive health and personal boundaries despite the provision of sexuality education programmes, says Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri (pic).
She said that peer influence, online exposure, and limited communication within families contributes to risky behaviour.
“Some adolescents also face vulnerability due to neglect, exploitation, or lack of support.
“Stigma surrounding discussions on sexuality can discourage young people from seeking accurate information or assistance,” she said.
Her comments were in reference to Health Ministry data which revealed that 21,114 pregnancies were recorded among unmarried girls aged 19 and below between 2019 and 2024.
Nancy said that the increase in teenage pregnancies reflects broader social, family, and environmental challenges.
“It requires a comprehensive approach that strengthens education, family support and protection systems.”
She said the ministry is strengthening interventions through the National Child Policy and Plan of Action 2026-2030 which would include improving access to adolescent-friendly healthcare, strengthening protection mechanisms, and expanding parenting support programmes.
Asked about the progress on the amendments to the Child Act to address such issues, Nancy said they are currently under review.
“This involves consultations with government agencies, experts, and civil society to ensure the law remains relevant, comprehensive, and fully aligned with Malaysia’s obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, reinforcing our commitment to protect the rights, dignity, and best interests of every child,” Nancy said.
In a population policy brief on June 2023 by the National Population and Family Develop-ment Board titled “Youth: Sexual Education and Reproductive Health”, the report stated that components of sexual education had existed since 1989 at secondary school level.
Four years later, it was introduced in primary schools.
In 2010, preschoolers were provided with such lessons.
The initial module was called Family Health Education before it was renamed Sexuality Education in 2003.
It was later renamed Reproductive Health and Social Education due to the term “sexuality” being perceived negatively.
Since 2011, it has been part of the Health Education subject.
The brief also noted that in Malaysia, sexual education remains a sensitive and controversial issue.
Despite the government implementing sexual education in schools, it is primarily focused on abstinence and moral values rather than comprehensive sex education that covers topics such as contraception and sexual health.
It also noted the lack of inclusivity and progressive attitudes among Malaysians when discussing gender and sexuality as well as discrimination and challenges in accessing information and resources related to sexual health and education.
