Budget 2027: Increased maternity leave entitlement could help boost fertility rate, says exco
The Perak state government in Malaysia has announced an increase in maternity leave entitlements under Budget 2027 to combat low fertility rates. Officials hope the policy will provide mothers with better recovery time and support for childcare.
Why it matters
Addressing fertility rates and supporting working mothers is a critical demographic and economic challenge for aging populations.
IPOH: The increase in total maternity leave under Budget 2027 could help address the low fertility rate, says Datuk Salbiah Mohamed.
The Perak women, family, social welfare, cooperatives and entrepreneur development committee chairman said the extended leave, which would allow more time to recover after childbirth and care for their babies, could potentially encourage families to have more children.
"Many young mothers are facing challenges due to limited maternity leave, particularly in finding childcare and having sufficient time to recover after giving birth.
"Perak's fertility rate stood at about 1.6 children per family, and this is a concern as we are also dealing with an ageing population," she said during a press conference after the opening of the state-level National Sports Day 2026 celebration at the State Youth and Sports Complex here on Saturday (Oct 10).
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