IPOH, Feb. 28 -- The rise of "youth retirement homes" such as the one in Gopeng may appear unconventional, but experts say it reflects a deeper generational shift unfolding across Malaysia.

As more young adults temporarily withdraw from work and urban pressures to recover from burnout -whether through structured retreats or informal breaks -counsellors and psychiatrists say they are redefining ambition, resilience and quality of life.

Rather than chasing traditional milestones, today's youth are placing greater emphasis on mental well-being, autonomy and purpose -a recalibration shaped by economic uncertainty, rising living costs and constant social comparison.

Redefining success in a high-pressure generation

Dr Tesini M. Paramannanth...