SHAH ALAM, July 9 — Late marriages and shifting perspectives are among the factors contributing to Selangor’s fertility rate remaining below the replacement level.
The Star reported that National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) deputy chairman Juwairiya Zulkifli said the state’s current fertility rate stood at 1.6 children per woman.
Malaysia’s total fertility rate is currently the same as Selangor's, at 1.6 children per woman, well below the replacement level of 2.1.
She said that younger couples are opting to marry later, while married couples have opted not to have children.
“These are among the factors contributing to the lower fertility rate,” she said during the state-level Father’s Day 2026 celebration at Petaling Jaya City’s Council Civic Centre.
Juwairiya added that LPPKN is tackling the issue through several initiatives, including fertility support for couples who wanted children but face financial constraints.
This includes the BuAI initiative, which provides subsidised fertility screening for eligible couples, especially from B40 families and couples who were unable to afford fertility screening and treatment at private clinics.
“For couples who qualify, the initial screening can be done for free for up to two cycles. The cost is about RM4,000 to RM5,000, depending on the tests required,” she said.
For couples looking at further fertility treatments, they must do so with their own finances, with Juwairiya noting that it is priced at affordable rates when compared with market prices.
Those interested in the programme could visit any of LPPKN’s Nur Sejahtera clinics nationwide that are nearest to them.
In her speech during the event, she said that fathers are the guides, protectors, and role models for their children.
While both parents’ roles are equally important, men’s health also needs more attention as it is closely linked to family well-being.
“The LPPKN is working to expand services related to men’s health, including through community programmes and health screenings,” Juwairiya said.
