In its latest Current Population Estimates 2024 report, the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) has revealed concerning trends in marital dynamics among Malaysians. Released today, the report indicates a notable decline in the number of marriages and an increase in divorces compared to previous years.
According to DOSM, in 2022, the divorce rate rose significantly, with two out of every 1,000 Malaysians getting divorced. This marks a stark contrast to 2021 and 2020, where only 1.4 and 1.5 individuals per 1,000 ended their marriages, respectively.
In tandem with the rising divorce rates, there has been a dip in the number of marriages. In 2022, only 6.6 individuals per 1,000 tied the knot, down from 6.7 in 2021.
Moreover, the report highlights a slight decrease in the total fertility rate, which fell from 1.7 in 2021 to 1.6 in 2022. DOSM’s fertility calculations, focusing solely on women aged 15-49, underscore this trend.
Another noteworthy finding from the report is the demographic imbalance, with men outnumbering women in Malaysia. The sex ratio in 2024 was reported as 111 males per 100 females, reflecting a persistent demographic pattern.
The DOSM report provides critical insights into evolving social trends in Malaysia, indicating shifting marital behaviors and demographic dynamics. These findings underscore the need for continued monitoring and policy responses to address changing societal needs and challenges.
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