Culturally Salient Markers of Adulthood in Malaysia: A Delphi Study of Higher Education Experts’ Consensus

This study identified and ranked culturally salient markers of adulthood in Malaysia using the Delphi method. Twenty experts from higher education institutions participated in two iterative rounds, providing perspectives that extended beyond legal or biological definitions. Thematic analysis of Round 1 responses produced nine markers spanning psychological, educational, personal, financial, spiritual, legal, familial, social, and biological domains. In Round 2, experts ranked these markers, with Emotional and Psychological Maturity rated highest, followed by Education and Knowledge, and Personal Responsibility and Autonomy. A modest but statistically significant level of agreement was found (Kendall’s W = 0.11, p < 0.05), suggesting shared tendencies rather than strong consensus. Overall, the findings indicate that Malaysian adulthood is primarily defined by intrapersonal and relational competencies rather than chronological or physical milestones, providing a culturally grounded understanding of adulthood and highlighting the role of higher education professionals in supporting young adults’ developmental transitions.