Job opportunities for those over 60 align with Malaysia’s demographic shift—Amir Hamzah

SINGAPORE, 29 SEPTEMBER 2026 —

Malaysia’s Deputy Finance Minister Calls for Flexible Work Options Beyond Age 60 to Address Demographic Shift

Malaysia’s Deputy Finance Minister, Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, has urged the government to expand flexible employment opportunities for healthy, capable citizens aged 60 and above, aligning with the country’s aging population and longer life expectancy.

The proposal follows a demographic shift where Malaysia’s workforce is increasingly older, with Amir Hamzah emphasizing the need to sustain economic contributions from those who remain productive. He highlighted that current policies may not adequately accommodate workers who wish to continue contributing beyond traditional retirement ages.

In a statement, Amir Hamzah said: “Rakyat yang masih sihat, berkemampuan dan mahu menyumbang selepas usia 60 tahun perlu diberi lebih banyak pilihan pekerjaan fleksibel, selari dengan perubahan demografi dan jangka hayat rakyat Malaysia yang semakin panjang.” He stressed that flexible work arrangements—such as part-time roles, remote positions, or contract-based employment—could help bridge the gap in labor shortages while allowing older workers to remain engaged.

The call comes as Malaysia’s population ages, with rising life expectancy and declining birth rates putting pressure on social security systems and workforce sustainability. Amir Hamzah did not specify immediate policy changes but indicated the need for a structured approach to integrate older workers into the economy. The government has previously discussed labor reforms, including extending retirement ages, but no concrete measures have been announced.

The minister’s remarks follow broader regional trends where countries like Singapore and Japan have introduced policies to retain older workers, recognizing their economic value. In Malaysia, the discussion aligns with ongoing debates on labor market flexibility and intergenerational equity. The next steps remain unclear, but the proposal signals growing recognition of the need to adapt workforce policies to demographic realities.

Related: Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan