Still working in retirement
The number of Malaysians working past the retirement age of 60 is rising, with over 433,000 active contributors to the social security system. Government officials note that many seniors remain productive and healthy, prompting updates to social security protections for both formal and informal sector workers.
Why it matters
As Malaysia approaches an ageing nation status by 2036, the integration of senior citizens into the workforce is becoming a critical economic and social policy issue.
PETALING JAYA: The number of people working past retirement age is going up as Malaysia’s population grows older.
Figures from the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) show 433,563 active contributors aged 60 and above as of July 2026, compared with 415,335 for the whole of 2023. Malaysia’s current retirement age is 60.
PERKESO deputy chief executive (Strategy and Corporate) Edmund Cheong Peck Huang said the growth points to a wider change taking place.
“Today, turning 60 does not necessarily mean that a person stops working.
“Many Malaysians remain healthy, productive and continue contributing their skills and experience to the economy well beyond 60.
“For PERKESO, social security therefore has to recognise this changing reality of working life,” Cheong said.
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