Infant Mortality Rate: Malaysia

Analysis# Malaysia Infant Mortality Rate Malaysia recorded 7 infant deaths per 1,000 births in 2024, reflecting one of the most dramatic public health improvements in the region over six decades. Since 1960, when the rate peaked at 68.3 per 1,000 births, Malaysia has achieved an 89.8% reduction in infant mortality. The country's lowest recorded rate of 6.5 per 1,000 births occurred in 2004, just 0.5 deaths below the current figure. The period between 1960 and the early 2000s saw the steepest declines, driven by expanded healthcare access and maternal care improvements. After reaching 6.5 in 2004, the rate has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 6.7 and 7.0 through 2024. This plateau suggests Malaysia has nearly approached its minimum achievable rate under existing conditions, with further improvements likely requiring targeted interventions in specific demographics or underlying health conditions.