Should Malaysian academics retire at 65? Balancing wisdom and renewal in higher education

THE ongoing debate on raising Malaysia’s retirement age to 65 has stirred strong reactions from all corners of the public sector. While much of the discussion revolves around economic implications and youth employment, the question takes on a deeper meaning within higher education.

Should Malaysian academics, the nation’s scholars, researchers and educators, be compelled to retire at 60 when their intellectual contributions are arguably at their peak?