Malaysia

Background

Click for a detailed map (PDF)

This map does not reflect a position by UNICEF on the legal status of any country or territory or the delimitation of any frontiers.

Malaysia has a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural population that enjoys a good standard of living and gives high priority to education and health. Universal primary education was achieved by 1990. The reductions in child and maternal mortality have been exceptional and rates are now similar to those of many developed countries. These improvements are attributable to a well developed primary health care system, including substantial investments in the reproductive health service, and to access to quality water, sanitation and nutrition. But Malaysia is not without its challenges. Underpinning these is the issue of disparity, social and economic, resulting in the marginalization of some communities.

Issues facing children in Malaysia

• HIV/AIDS prevalence is increasing. Reported HIV cases are doubling every three years.
• Reports of violence against children and young people, including sexual abuse, are increasing.
• Juvenile offences and substance abuse also appear to be on the rise.
• Many parents are short of time for child-rearing and care of young children. There is a shortage of quality services for early childhood care and development.
• Accident and injury is now the leading cause of child morbidity and mortality.

Activities and results for children

• ‘Vision 2020’ is the Malaysian Government’s time-frame to measure its emergence as a fully industrialized economy and an equitable, caring society. The child and family are at the centre of Vision 2020.
• The UNITE FOR CHILDREN  UNITE AGAINST AIDS global campaign launched in Malaysia in October 2005, as a rallying call for a national movement in support of HIV/AIDS awareness, prevention, care and treatment.
• UNICEF works with the Ministries of Education and Health using life skills based learning for both curriculum development and grassroots activities such as youth centres and sports.
• UNICEF supports the Government’s five year National Strategic Plan on HIV/AIDS 2006-2010 and especially its harm reduction initiatives.
• UNICEF works with the Government to improve monitoring and reporting systems for all forms of abuse against children.
• UNICEF collaborates with regional partners, the Ministry for Women, Family and Community Development and the Ministry for Home Affairs as well as Human Rights institutions to address the pernicious cross-border crime of trafficking and sexual exploitation of children and women.
• UNICEF works with the Government to support a national surveillance and monitoring system for the incidence and causes of injury and accident in children and young people.
• A better understanding of the risk factors that lead to child injury will assist UNICEF to support the Government to develop effective strategies, partnerships and interventions to reduce the risk of accident.
• Capacity-building includes support for studies on child development, protection, participation and responsibility.
• Experience exchange, technical assistance, training, policy analysis and inter-country research on children's issues are a major component of the programme of cooperation between UNICEF and Malaysia.