Why Encouragement Alone Isn't Enough: The Real Support Young Families Need Today

Are young people really ready to start families, or are we just telling them to? It's a question that's been gaining traction recently, particularly in light of statements from Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. In a recent article by The Star (https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/07/11/youth-need-supportive-ecosystem-to-start-families-not-mere-encouragement-says-nancy), Nancy emphasized that family-related policies must do much more than just encourage youth to marry and have children—they need to build a genuine, supportive ecosystem tailored to the barriers and realities they face today. This article sheds new light on the structural changes needed to truly empower the younger generation to start families on their own terms.

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