A Preliminary Study on Atheism and Agnosticism Tendencies among Malaysian University Students based Ethnicity and School Orientation

This preliminary study explores tendencies toward atheism and agnosticism among Malaysian university students, emphasizing variations by ethnicity and school orientation. In Malaysia where religion, particularly Islam, is central to ethnic and national identity, open atheism remains rare and stigmatized. Using survey data from 397 respondents, we developed an Atheism and Agnosticism Tendency Score based on agreement with statements expressing doubt or disbelief in God. Overall, the level of irreligious inclination was low (M = 2.04, SD = 0.84, on a 1-5 scale). However, significant differences were found across groups: male students scored higher than females, and non-Malay students (especially Chinese and Indian) showed stronger irreligious tendencies than Malay or indigenous peers. Students from vernacular and international schools also exhibited higher nonreligious orientation than those from national religious schools. Field of study was another factor, students in science and medicine scored higher than those in religious or social sciences. Family and peer religiosity correlated negatively with atheism and agnosticism, while social-media exposure showed no significant association. These findings suggest that educational environment and ethno-religious background are central influences shaping secular attitudes among Malaysian youth. The study highlights the importance of cultural context in understanding secularization and recommends dialogical and educational engagement to address emerging doubts among students.