KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is preparing to launch the Senior Citizens Action Plan on Oct 5 to safeguard the rights, dignity and wellbeing of older Malaysians.
Welfare Department deputy director-general Rosmahwati Ishak said the plan will be a comprehensive roadmap to protect dignity, security and well-being for older people.
“Among the new strategies introduced are efforts to diversify awareness on ageing issues, the rights of older persons and the responsibilities of children,” she said at a conference on ageing on Saturday (Sept 27).
“Meanwhile, the Economy Ministry is preparing the Ageing National Agenda, which focuses on medium and long-term socio-economic development plans,” she added.
“It is supported by various ministries and stakeholders and is in line with the whole-of-nation approach,” she said.
Rosmahwati added that the agenda includes challenges in health, education, finance, productivity and labour, as well as the use of technology that will determine long-term and sustainable economic growth for the ageing.
“It is our moral duty as a society and as a nation to ensure that they live not in fear or neglect but in peace, safety and happiness. Yet behind closed doors, some of our elderly face a silent struggle,” she added.
She said many elderly still face domestic violence, including financial abuse and abandonment, issues often shrouded in silence and stigma.
“Many face physical, emotional and even financial abuse, often from those closest to them,” she said.
“We must break this silence and confront the stigma and speak openly about the challenges faced by our older persons so that none of them feel invisible, unheard or unprotected,” she added.
Saying legal frameworks alone are not enough, she said true protection comes from building a culture of awareness, compassion and respect.
She added this must be alongside policies that guarantee access to healthcare, housing and protection without discrimination.
Rosmahwati called on society to see ageing not as a burden but as a victory.
She reminded younger Malaysians that how we treat our elders today will reflect the society of tomorrow.
Urging unity, she said the elderly deserve to live their golden years with love, respect and dignity.
“Let’s not forget that their selflessness and sacrifices allow us to enjoy the Malaysia we have today, so it is now our responsibility to ensure that they live in peace, safety and happiness,” she said.
