Excerpts from Malaysia Country Statement at the 58th Session of the United Nations Commission on Population and Development, 7 – 11 April 2025, New York.
Over the past 30 years, Malaysia has made significant progress since the implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action in 1994. Malaysia has been successful in providing high-quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare, aligning with the principle of universal health coverage. Consistent investments in healthcare systems have ensured that quality services are available across the continuum, from preventive care and diagnostics to specialized treatments, all supported by a large workforce of skilled and trained healthcare professionals.
Malaysia has consistently met SDG Target 3.1.1, addressing the health needs of women in reproductive age. Since 1979, we have successfully reduced the maternal mortality rate (MMR) to well below the global target of 70 per 100,000 live births. In 2023, the MMR was further reduced to 25.7 compared to 26.0 per 100,000 live births in 2022.
In response to declining fertility rates, Malaysia has made significant strides in improving infertility care access. Initiatives include a 2025 nationwide Intrauterine Insemination Assistance and Infertility Advocacy Programme, supported by a RM171 million (USD36 million) investment to set up Malaysia’s first National Subfertility Centre, slated to be operational by 2030.
Malaysia is also giving great attention to the health needs of its younger population as reflected in the updated National Policy and Plan of Action on Social and Reproductive Health Education (2022-2025). This initiative focuses on delivering sexual and reproductive health education that is grounded in religious and moral values across different settings and age groups.
“Since 1979, we have successfully reduced the maternal mortality rate (MMR) to well below the global target of 70 per 100,000 live births. In 2023, the MMR was further reduced to 25.7 compared to 26.0 per 100,000 live births in 2022”
As Malaysia transitions to an aging society, the government is prioritizing the “Ageing Nation Agenda” within the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13). This initiative is designed to create a robust social safety net for older persons, ensuring they live in an inclusive and supportive environment. To this end, the Government is developing the National Strategic Framework and Plan of Action for the Care Industry 2026-2030.
Malaysia firmly believes that well-being extends beyond economic progress, encompassing social, physical and mental health. The National Agenda for a Healthy Malaysia (ANMS) is a key initiative to promote healthy lifestyles and create a health-conscious environment. Our goal is to reduce the overall burden of diseases while promoting a culture of health and wellness within our communities. Additionally, the Family Well-Being Index (FWI), serves as a vital tool to assess household stability and guide family-centered policies. Meanwhile, the Malaysian Well-Being Index (MyWI) reflects the overall progress in national well-being across economic, social, and health dimensions. These indices serve as a guiding framework for policies development, reinforcing Malaysia’s commitment to building a balanced and inclusive society.
“The National Agenda for a Healthy Malaysia (ANMS) is a key initiative to promote healthy lifestyles and create a health-conscious environment. Our goal is to reduce the overall burden of diseases while promoting a culture of health and wellness within our communities.
In conclusion, Malaysia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the ICPD-POA. We remain dedicated to implementing policies that promote inclusivity, peace and prosperity, ensuring the fair and equitable distribution of resources for all its citizens.
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