Ipsos poll: Malaysians prioritise jobs and homes over traditional milestones

A new Ipsos report reveals that Malaysians prioritize stable employment and home ownership over traditional milestones such as marriage and parenthood. According to the Ipsos Life Aspirations 2026 report, 67% of Malaysians view a stable job as essential for success, compared to 65% globally, while 60% prioritize home ownership, slightly above the global average of 58%.

The survey of 501 Malaysians aged 18 to 74 highlights a strong emphasis on family, with 47% viewing parenthood and 42% marriage as markers of success, significantly higher than global figures of 31% and 25%, respectively. However, there is a noticeable generational divide. While both Millennials and Gen Z agree on the importance of career stability, Gen Z is less likely to prioritize marriage and parenthood.

Only 32% of Gen Z view marriage as a success marker, compared to 58% of Millennials, and 35% value parenthood, versus 50% of Millennials. This shift aligns with broader demographic trends, as Malaysians increasingly delay family milestones in favor of education, career progression, and financial security. Despite this, the desire to own a home remains strong, with 79% of respondents aspiring to do so, but only 46% having achieved it, indicating a persistent housing affordability crisis.