Malaysia population reaches 34.4 million

Photo courtesy of Malay Mail

Malaysia’s population is estimated to reach 34.4 million in 2026, rising from 34.2 million last year, while 12 states are now classified as ageing, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia.

The annual growth rate is estimated at 0.5 per cent. The citizen population increased from 30.8 million to 31 million, while the number of non-citizens declined by 0.2 per cent.

Selangor remains the largest state

Selangor accounts for 21.7 per cent of Malaysia’s population, followed by Johor with 12.3 per cent and Sabah with 11 per cent.

Terengganu recorded the fastest population growth at 1.2 per cent. Kelantan grew by 1 per cent, while Selangor, Putrajaya and Pahang each recorded 0.6 per cent growth.

Population density rose to 104 people per square kilometre from 103 last year. Kuala Lumpur had the highest density at 8,574 people per square kilometre, while Sarawak recorded the lowest at 20.

Twelve states now classified as ageing

The share of children aged up to 14 fell from 21.6 per cent to 21.2 per cent. The working-age share remained at 70.4 per cent, while those aged 65 and above increased from 8 per cent to 8.4 per cent.

A state is considered ageing when at least 7 per cent of its population is aged 65 or above. Perak had the largest elderly share at 10.8 per cent. Malaysia’s median age rose from 31.3 to 31.7 years.

The old-age dependency ratio increased from 11.4 to 11.9 elderly people for every 100 working-age residents, although the overall dependency ratio edged down to 42.

What it means for foreigners in Malaysia

Population ageing is likely to increase demand for healthcare, retirement services and accessible housing. Foreign residents may see more private-sector services aimed at older customers, particularly in states with larger elderly populations.

Businesses should also consider strong regional differences. Selangor remains Malaysia’s largest consumer and employment market, while rapidly growing states such as Terengganu may offer expanding demand. Meanwhile, the slight fall in the non-citizen population may affect sectors that depend heavily on migrant labour.

31 July 2026