Perak Youth Less Involved in the State's Agricultural Sector

Perak Youth Less Involved in the State's Agricultural Sector

The agricultural sector in Perak is still dominated by those aged 46 and above, accounting for over 76 percent, while youth participation in this field remains low.

According to the latest data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia, nearly half (46.6%) of individual agricultural holdings are owned by those aged 60 and above, followed by the 46 to 59 age group (30%). Meanwhile, only 23.4 percent or 24,555 youths aged 15 to 45 are active in this sector.

Chief Statistician, Datuk Seri Dr. Mohd. Uzir Mahidin, urged immediate action to address this generational gap. “This data reveals the reality that the agricultural sector in Perak still relies heavily on the elderly group. The participation gap between the older and younger generations is not only worrying but also suggests a fragile future if no drastic efforts are taken,” he emphasized.

He said this during the launch of the 2024 Agricultural Census Interim Report today, which was also witnessed by the Perak Agriculture Exco, Datuk Mohd. Zolkafly Harun.

The census recorded 107,474 agricultural holdings in Perak in 2023, with 97.6% (104,878 holdings) owned by individuals and the remainder (2.4% or 2,596 holdings) under organizations.

With current trends, concerns are growing regarding the sustainability of the state's agricultural sector if youth interest continues to decline. Authorities are expected to implement attractive initiatives to encourage the younger generation to join this field before the labor crisis becomes more severe.