PROFESSIONAL DISCOURSES ON EARLY MARRIAGE IN MALAYSIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35631/IJMTSS.935005Keywords:
Early Marriage, Malay Community, Out-Of-WedlockAbstract
Early marriage involves individuals typically aged 18 to 24, though it often encompasses teenagers whose psychological and socio-economic readiness is lacking. Despite global mandates to eliminate child and early marriages, the practice continues in Malaysia due to complex cultural, religious, and socio-economic drivers. This study aims to identify the demographic characteristics, determine the driving factors, and explore professional perceptions regarding early marriage among the Malay community in Malaysia. Employing a qualitative cross-sectional design, in-depth interviews were conducted with six professionals—including counsellors, Syariah lawyers, and psychology officers—selected via purposive sampling. The findings reveal that early marriages predominantly involve the low-income (B40) demographic. Factors driving these unions include a religious intent to prevent premarital sins, social issues leading to out-of-wedlock pregnancies, problematic family environments, and poverty. Experts display nuanced perceptions; while a minority acknowledge potential positive outcomes given immense family and financial support, the majority strongly discourage the practice due to the severe socio-economic and emotional repercussions it imposes. The study concludes that early marriages severely limit educational and career trajectories, demanding comprehensive interventions such as modern sex education, stringent religious guidance, and accessible family counselling to safeguard the well-being of young adolescents.
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