KUCHING — The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry plans to prioritize expanding fertility initiatives in the upcoming Budget 2027 to address Malaysia’s declining birth rate, particularly in states such as Sarawak and Penang, Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said.
The ministry will increase allocations for fertility programmes under the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) to encourage higher birth rates among the population, especially targeting young individuals. Nancy Shukri emphasized the importance of these efforts despite recognition that economic factors also contribute to lower fertility levels.
“We are already implementing these programmes through LPPKN, but we intend to place greater emphasis on them next year,” she stated, highlighting the ministry’s focus on initiatives that motivate people to have children.
The minister made these remarks during the launch of the Perantis-Pendaya 2.0 programme in Kuching on Saturday. The initiative aims to empower Dayak women entrepreneurs by supporting leadership development, business scaling, and sustainability. The event underscored the ministry’s broader commitment to enhancing family well-being and community development alongside addressing population challenges.
Malaysia has faced a steady decline in birth rates in recent years, raising concerns about long-term demographic shifts and potential impacts on economic growth. While economic pressures such as cost of living and housing are acknowledged as influencing family planning decisions, the government is seeking to stimulate fertility rates through targeted interventions.
The LPPKN’s fertility programmes typically include education and awareness campaigns, reproductive health services, and support for young couples. Increased budget allocations are expected to enable the ministry to extend outreach and resources to a wider demographic.
Addressing Sarawak and Penang specifically reflects regional disparities where birth rates have shown sharper decreases compared to other parts of the country. The ministry’s strategy aims to tailor efforts to the unique needs and challenges faced in these states.
By integrating fertility initiatives with broader social empowerment programmes like Perantis-Pendaya 2.0, the ministry hopes to foster an environment conducive to family growth while simultaneously supporting women’s economic participation and leadership roles.