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Rising cost of living delays youth marriages, says deputy minister
Rising cost of living delays youth marriages, says deputy minister

The Sun

timea day ago

  • Business
  • The Sun

Rising cost of living delays youth marriages, says deputy minister

KUALA LUMPUR: The increasing cost of living has become the primary reason many young Malaysians delay marriage and starting families, according to Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad. She cited a United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) report stating that nearly one in five adults across 14 countries may not achieve their desired family size due to financial constraints. 'Of this group, 39 per cent cited financial constraints as the main barrier, including the cost of living, childcare, housing, and job insecurity. This is where our responsibility lies, to listen, understand, and act,' she said during the 2025 World Population Day celebration. To address the issue, the government has introduced initiatives such as maternity and paternity leave, childcare subsidies, and financial aid for low-income families. Awareness programmes on reproductive and family health are also being conducted. Malaysia's fertility rate has declined to 1.7 children per woman, below the replacement level of 2.1. Noraini noted that only 93,500 births were recorded in the first quarter of 2025, an 11 per cent drop compared to the previous year. 'These numbers are not just statistics; they represent a growing urgency for effective policies, support systems, and public awareness,' she said. The government is implementing the Fertility Treatment Aid and Infertility Advocacy Programme (BuAI), aiming to assist 30,000 couples by 2025. Additional programmes like PEKERTI, SMARTSTART, and Kafe\@TEEN are also being expanded to promote family planning and reproductive health. This year's World Population Day celebration has been extended to the state level, engaging over 5,000 participants. The event also featured the launch of UNFPA's State of World Population 2025 report, highlighting global fertility challenges and opportunities. – Bernama

Cost of living main reason youths delay starting families
Cost of living main reason youths delay starting families

Sinar Daily

timea day ago

  • Health
  • Sinar Daily

Cost of living main reason youths delay starting families

Nearly one in five adults across 14 countries acknowledged that they may not be able to have the number of children they desire. 21 Jul 2025 08:04pm Noraini said this year's World Population Day celebration has been expanded to the state level with various programmes involving more than 5,000 participants throughout July and August. - Photo illustrated by Sinar Daily KUALA LUMPUR - The pressure of the rising cost of living is the main factor why many youths choose to delay marriage and start a family, even though the desire remains, said Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad. According to a report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), she said nearly one in five adults across 14 countries acknowledged that they may not be able to have the number of children they desire. "Of this group, 39 per cent cited financial constraints as the main barrier, including the cost of living, childcare, housing, and job insecurity. This is where our responsibility lies, to listen, understand, and act,' she said in her speech at the 2025 World Population Day celebration here today. She said the government has implemented various initiatives to help young couples build families in a more stable and structured environment, including providing maternity and paternity leave, childcare subsidies, financial assistance for low-income families, as well as organising awareness programmes on reproductive and family health. Commenting on Malaysia's declining fertility rate, currently at 1.7 children per woman, which is below the population replacement level of 2.1, Noraini said the government is implementing the Fertility Treatment Aid and Infertility Advocacy Programme (BuAI), targeting 30,000 couples by 2025. "In just the first quarter of 2025, only 93,500 births were recorded, a drop of more than 11 per cent compared to the previous year. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent a growing urgency for effective policies, support systems, and public awareness,' she said. In addition, she said family and reproductive health education programmes such as PEKERTI, SMARTSTART, and Kafe@TEEN are also being implemented on an ongoing basis. "These efforts are part of a holistic, inclusive and youth-friendly approach. We want young people to start their families in a stable environment, supported by relevant policies and surrounded by hope, not worry,' she added. Meanwhile, Noraini said this year's World Population Day celebration has been expanded to the state level with various programmes involving more than 5,000 participants throughout July and August. The event also saw the launch of the UNFPA's State of World Population 2025 report titled 'The Real Fertility Crisis: The Pursuit of Reproductive Agency in a Changing World', which highlights global challenges and opportunities in the context of fertility, reproductive choices, and intergenerational justice. The launch of the report in Malaysia reflects international recognition of the country's commitment to addressing population issues comprehensively and through evidence-based policies. - BERNAMA

Cost Of Living Main Reason Youths Delay Starting Families
Cost Of Living Main Reason Youths Delay Starting Families

Barnama

timea day ago

  • Politics
  • Barnama

Cost Of Living Main Reason Youths Delay Starting Families

KUALA LUMPUR, July 21 (Bernama) -- The pressure of the rising cost of living is the main factor why many youths choose to delay marriage and start a family, even though the desire remains, said Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad. According to a report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), she said nearly one in five adults across 14 countries acknowledged that they may not be able to have the number of children they desire. 'Of this group, 39 per cent cited financial constraints as the main barrier, including the cost of living, childcare, housing, and job insecurity. This is where our responsibility lies, to listen, understand, and act,' she said in her speech at the 2025 World Population Day celebration here today. She said the government has implemented various initiatives to help young couples build families in a more stable and structured environment, including providing maternity and paternity leave, childcare subsidies, financial assistance for low-income families, as well as organising awareness programmes on reproductive and family health. Commenting on Malaysia's declining fertility rate, currently at 1.7 children per woman, which is below the population replacement level of 2.1, Noraini said the government is implementing the Fertility Treatment Aid and Infertility Advocacy Programme (BuAI), targeting 30,000 couples by 2025. 'In just the first quarter of 2025, only 93,500 births were recorded, a drop of more than 11 per cent compared to the previous year. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent a growing urgency for effective policies, support systems, and public awareness,' she said. In addition, she said family and reproductive health education programmes such as PEKERTI, SMARTSTART, and Kafe@TEEN are also being implemented on an ongoing basis. 'These efforts are part of a holistic, inclusive and youth-friendly approach. We want young people to start their families in a stable environment, supported by relevant policies and surrounded by hope, not worry,' she added. Meanwhile, Noraini said this year's World Population Day celebration has been expanded to the state level with various programmes involving more than 5,000 participants throughout July and August.

KPWKM Holds Forum In Sabah To Address Teen Social Issues
KPWKM Holds Forum In Sabah To Address Teen Social Issues

Barnama

time20-05-2025

  • Health
  • Barnama

KPWKM Holds Forum In Sabah To Address Teen Social Issues

KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 (Bernama) -- The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry (KPWKM) held the Advocacy Forum on Reproductive and Social Health Education (PEKERTI) for Parents in Sabah to address the issue of social problems among teenagers. The forum, held in Penampang last Sunday, aimed to provide parents with exposure and knowledge to help strengthen teenagers' self-identity in preserving their dignity and that of the nation. Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said such topics should not be regarded as taboo or sensitive, as concerns that reproductive and social health information might arouse curiosity among teens should not hinder the provision of education. 'Currently, the issue of indiscriminate social interaction among teenagers is one that must be addressed. One of the contributing factors is the lack of religious education and insufficient reproductive and social health information being instilled from home,' she said. Her speech was delivered by the ministry's deputy secretary-general (operations), Farah Adura Hamidi, at the official launch of the PEKERTI Forum. According to Nancy, the issue of out-of-wedlock teenage pregnancies is also of growing concern, with Health Ministry (MOH) statistics recording 17,646 cases between 2019 and 2023 out of a total of 44,263 pregnancies involving teenagers during the same period. 'Data also shows that 1,816 out-of-wedlock teenage pregnancies were recorded in Sabah from 2019 to 2023,' she said. Nancy said in response, KPWKM through the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) had developed several modules to disseminate information to target groups, including the ACE Module – Accurate, Comprehensive and Effective – which considers current sexual issues at global and national levels, including legislation related to sexual violence and trafficking. In addition, she said, a special Reproductive and Social Health Education Module was also developed for boys aged 16 and above to promote greater responsibility among older teens and young men.

Zahid, Fadillah lead heartfelt tributes to mothers nationwide
Zahid, Fadillah lead heartfelt tributes to mothers nationwide

New Straits Times

time11-05-2025

  • General
  • New Straits Times

Zahid, Fadillah lead heartfelt tributes to mothers nationwide

KUALA LUMPUR: The two deputy prime ministers and several cabinet ministers have expressed their heartfelt appreciation for all mothers in conjunction with Mother's Day today. In his message, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi conveyed his deepest gratitude to all the extraordinary women known as mothers, who have devoted their lives to raising their children with love and care. "I will never forget the person who has done the most for me... My mother, who has been my source of strength since childhood. "My tribute also goes to my beloved wife, who is the mother of our children, and the mothers of our grandchildren, all of whom have made great sacrifices for the family. Their prayers are what keep me going in my service to the people and the country. "Honour our mothers always. Cherish them while they are still with us, and offer heartfelt prayers for those who have passed on. Thank you to all mothers in Malaysia. You are the backbone of the family, the people and our nation," he said in a Facebook post today. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, also via Facebook, said the role of mothers has become increasingly demanding, particularly as they face economic challenges and the rapid pace of technological advancement. "Mothers may find it difficult to constantly monitor their children's movements at all times. "Nevertheless, no matter the challenge, every mother always strives to do her best for her children. The duty and role of a mother is a noble responsibility. "Mothers must be able to serve as 'qudwah' (role models) for their children," he said. He said the government has implemented various support measures for mothers, including the i-Suri special incentive, the Women's Economic Development Programme (PEKERTI), childcare facilities at workplaces and the National Women's Policy. "In conjunction with Mother's Day, let us remember and honour the sacrifices our mothers have made for a better future. Thank you, Mum. Happy Mother's Day," he said. Mother's Day is celebrated worldwide on the second Sunday of May each year. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil also extended Mother's Day greetings to all mothers, who have been a source of strength, love and unwavering sacrifice. "Without you, Mother, we are nothing," he said in a Facebook post today. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that women, especially mothers, play not only a vital role in the family institution but are also valuable assets in nation-building. "In the Madani government, we recognise the contributions of women as leaders, educators, shapers of values and agents of change in society. Without women, without mothers, there would be no resilient society or prosperous nation. "To all mothers across the country, I pray that you continue to be blessed with health, strength and grace in every step you take. Happy Mother's Day. Your sacrifices are beyond measure," he said. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi also expressed his gratitude to all mothers, especially his late mother, mother-in-law and beloved wife, for their sacrifices, loving advice and constant prayers. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir also extended Mother's Day wishes to his mother and his wife, and called on the public to cherish and love their mothers. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek conveyed her Mother's Day greetings with this year's theme, 'A Mother's Loving Touch', expressing appreciation to all mothers, including those who nurture the nation's children— teachers, guardians, single mothers, grandmothers, and women who are pillars of love in society. "A mother's touch is love that flows from a pure heart, raising children unconditionally and loving them without limits. May every mother continue to be blessed with health, happiness and divine favour," she said. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar also expressed his appreciation to all mothers, acknowledging them as the backbone of the family, the shapers of future generations and an invaluable source of inspiration. "Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing women who embody love and sacrifice," he said. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali also wished everyone a meaningful Mother's Day, describing mothers as irreplaceable. "On this meaningful day, let us express our deepest gratitude to all mothers who have poured their hearts and souls into raising their children with love and devotion. Thank you, Mum. You are the queen of my heart," he said.

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