KUALA LUMPUR: An ecosystem is being developed to strengthen the national care sector, says Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
This will be achieved through the Malaysia Care Economy Strategic Framework and Action Plan 2026-2030, the Women, Family and Community Development Minister told the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (Oct 28).
She said the ecosystem would properly address the sector, which provides much-needed services for children, the elderly and persons with disabilities.
The strategic framework and action plan will be launched at the Asean-level New Frontiers in the Care Economy Conference, organised by her ministry, scheduled for Nov 4 and 5.
"The framework and action plan were developed through a whole-of-nation approach, involving various stakeholders including government agencies, the private sector, higher education institutions, industry players and experts in the care field.
"Their development is also aligned with the National Ageing Blueprint prepared by the Economy Ministry, which, among others, addresses long-term care," she said during Minister's Question Time.
Mohamad Shafizan Kepli (GPS-Batang Lupar) had asked about the government’s direction and efforts to develop an inclusive care economy to meet growing demand.
In reply to a supplementary question from Shafizan about training opportunities for caregivers, Nancy said the ministry emphasises quality training to produce more skilled caregivers or care workers.
She added that the Malaysian Social Institute (ISM) provides upskilling courses for caregivers that cover physical care, emotional management, report writing on the progress of care recipients, and community integration.
"These courses are designed to provide basic care training for caregivers, whether from welfare institutions under the Social Welfare Department; non-governmental organisation care centres; private care centres; home-based volunteer services; or individuals caring for family members with health issues," she said.
