Malaysia's ministry to boost fertility support in Sarawak and Penang

At a press event in Kuching, Minister Nancy Shukri said the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry will prioritize fertility programmes to counter low birth rates, especially in Sarawak and Penang. The plan includes expanding assistance for couples facing fertility challenges, with coverage for treatments such as in-vitro fertilisation under the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN). While such measures are already in place, the ministry intends to intensify its focus next year.

Shukri highlighted that economic considerations influence young families' decisions and that boosting births is essential for national population growth. Research on fertility trends has identified specific factors behind the decline, which the ministry will share later.