MP SPEAKS | The decision for couples to remain child-free is a topic often surrounded by misconceptions and oversimplified arguments.

The recent statement by PAS MP Salamiah Mohd Nor, attributing this trend to liberal influences, is not only misleading but also an inaccurate oversimplification of a complex issue.

Such statements fail to recognise the deeply personal and multifaceted reasons behind family planning decisions. Couples today weigh a variety of factors, including health, lifestyle, and individual goals.

Many opt to remain child-free due to career aspirations, environmental concerns, and the desire to maintain a certain quality of life.

Couples often delay parenthood to ensure they are financially and emotionally prepared. The significant costs associated with raising children such as education, healthcare, and daily expenses, can pose a considerable financial burden.

With the escalating costs of living and economic uncertainties, it is entirely rational for couples to prioritise financial stability. This careful planning is aimed at creating a secure and nurturing environment for their potential children, reflecting a commitment to responsible parenthood.

Islamic values also emphasise the importance of raising children in nurturing environments. Islam encourages responsible parenthood, stressing the need to provide for children’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

This aligns with the idea that delaying parenthood until conditions are favourable is a responsible and valued decision within the faith.

Other influences

Moreover, societal changes, such as evolving gender roles, increased opportunities for women, and new definitions of family and success, significantly influence family planning decisions.

These changes lead to diverse and personalised life choices that go beyond political ideologies. It’s important to respect individual choices in family planning, acknowledging their validity across different cultural and religious contexts.

The decision to remain child-free is complex and deeply personal, therefore, respecting personal choices is crucial in our diverse society.

Simplifying it as a product of liberal ideology fails to capture its complexity and ignores the broader societal shifts that present society faces. Recognising and respecting these choices fosters an inclusive environment where individuals and couples feel supported regardless of their family planning decisions.

Promoting respect and understanding around family planning choices benefits society as a whole. By valuing personal autonomy and diverse life paths, we create a compassionate community where everyone feels empowered to make the best choices for themselves and their families.

It is high time we move beyond oversimplified statements and instead foster a respectful dialogue that truly understands and supports the varied and valid reasons behind these personal decisions.

SYERLEENA ABDUL RASHID is the MP for Bukit Bendera.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.