Ethnic fertility differentials in Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore
Saw, S.H.
Journal of Biosocial Science 22(1): 101-112
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-9320 PMID: 2298755 DOI: 10.1017/s0021932000018411Document Number: 232060
Ethnic fertility differentials are compared in Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore for Malays, Chinese, and Indians from 1947-87. These 2 neighboring countries have similar ethnic compositions and historical experiences. Both were part of a combined colonial territory under British rule until the late 1940s. By 1987, the Malays experienced the highest fertility rate in Peninsular Malaysia, while the Chinese had the lowest rate in both countries. It is noted that the Chinese fertility rate in peninsular Malaysia (Malays 4.51, Chinese 2.25, Indians 2.77) is greater than the Malay's fertility in Singapore (Malays 2.16, Chinese 1.48, Indians 1.95). These fertility differentials will lead to a shift in ethnic composition in both countries. Both governments have shifted from strictly antinatalist policies to a relaxed pronatalist influence.