Abstract

Differences in fertility between the three major ethnic groups (Malays, Chinese and Indians) in Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore have existed since before the onset of fertility decline in the late 1950s and remain today, although the relative positions and the actual differences have changed due to the varying rates of decline. By 1987, the Malays experienced the highest fertility and the Chinese the lowest in both countries but in Singapore the Malay fertility was lower than the Chinese fertility in Peninsular Malaysia. The fertility differentials will lead to changes in the ethnic composition in both countries but more so in Peninsular Malaysia.

PIP:

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.author's modified

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