Malaysia's fast ageing population: Are we ready to handle the consequences?


Photo: Filepic/AFP

Currently, there are an estimated 3.5 million people – or 7% of the population – in Malaysia who are above the age of 65. This group is the most vulnerable in terms of maintaining a minimum standard of living until the age of 77 or so, which is the average lifespan for a Malaysian male. This means 65-year-olds live for another 12 to 15 years after retirement.

Even now, does the ageing population have the financial resources needed to maintain a decent standard of living? And are they emotionally stable enough to overcome anxiety and feelings of neglect, loneliness and rejection? Do those who are pensionable find the rising costs of food and other necessities eating into their monthly allowance?

The Star Christmas Special Promo: Save 35% OFF Yearly. T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
ageing , retirement , elderly

Next In Letters

Older – but also wiser, kinder and more hopeful in 2026
Isn’t healthcare a basic right of every Malaysian?
Difficult SPM paper needs careful assessment before marking
Solve e-hailing chaos ahead of VM2026
Ecoanxiety: The overlooked toll of the climate crisis
An attack on one innocent is an attack on all of humanity
From victims to vigilance: Building scam resistance among young Malaysians
Incestuous crimes: A failure of the family’s protective structure
We need a results-oriented approach to sports
Retaining specialists vital for public healthcare

Others Also Read