During the Budget 2025 debates in Parliament, Datuk Rosol Wahid (PN-Hulu Terengganu) proposed polygamy as a potential solution to Malaysia’s declining birth rate, sparking significant public debate. He urged the government to consider incentives that encourage marriage and childbearing, emphasizing the importance of addressing this demographic issue. Rosol pointed out that an increasing number of young Malaysians are opting not to marry or have children, which he views as a troubling trend that could negatively impact the nation’s future.
Rosol highlighted the importance of population size in achieving national success, referencing countries like China, India, and Indonesia, where large populations are seen as a key factor in their economic and geopolitical strength. He recalled former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad’s 1982 vision of Malaysia reaching a population of 70 million but noted the steady decline in the country’s birth rate, which fell from 2.1 children per woman in 2010 to 1.6 in 2020. According to Rosol, this decline could lead to Malaysia becoming an ageing society by 2043, with 15% of the population aged 65 or older. Such a demographic shift could reduce workforce productivity and strain social and economic systems.
In his remarks, Rosol called on the Women, Family, and Community Development Ministry to play a more active role in promoting marriage and childbirth. While his suggestion to encourage polygamy has generated significant attention, it also raised questions about the broader strategies needed to address the declining birth rate. Supporters of the idea view it as an unconventional but potentially effective approach, while critics argue that it fails to address underlying issues such as economic instability, rising living costs, and shifting cultural attitudes toward marriage and family life.
Rosol also highlighted the potential risks of an ageing population, including increased pressure on healthcare services and a shrinking workforce. These challenges could undermine Malaysia’s long-term socio-economic development and require urgent action to reverse the current demographic trends. He emphasized the importance of proactive government measures to ensure that Malaysia remains competitive and sustainable in the face of these challenges.
The proposal to promote polygamy has sparked a wide range of reactions, with some seeing it as a creative solution to a pressing issue, while others believe it oversimplifies a complex problem. Many argue for a more comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of low marriage and fertility rates, such as providing financial support, affordable housing, childcare options, and policies that promote work-life balance for families. The broader debate underscores the need to balance innovative solutions with cultural, social, and economic considerations.
As Malaysia navigates its demographic challenges, the discussion highlights the importance of crafting policies that not only encourage population growth but also respect the diverse values and realities of its society. The ongoing conversation reflects the complexity of finding sustainable and culturally sensitive solutions to ensure the nation’s long-term prosperity.
Information Source: World of Buzz
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