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?

Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 11.12/month

Billed as RM 11.12 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 9.87/month

Billed as RM 118.40 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

Home ownership is overrated
Honouring our past, shaping our future
Silent threat in our porches
Holistic interventions needed on school security
Sharing Malaysian identity through national language
Powering homes with balcony solar systems
New payment system makes passing toll plazas a breeze� �
When financial reporting misrepresents the figures �
Thoughts on proposed hybrid GST-SST system
Govt must address issues pertaining to Auku: Allow university students to be openly involved

Others Also Read