Seek public feedback on Senior Citizens Bill

OVER a period of 10 years (from 2010 to 2020), Malaysia’s ageing population has jumped from 5% to 6.8%. Seven years from now, that figure is expected to cross the 10% mark.

Any country where 10% of the population is 60 years old and above can be considered an ageing society, says the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Cognizant of this fact, the government is taking steps to address the challenges that come with declining fertility rates and increasing life expectancy.

Among others, it will be tabling a Senior Citizens Bill in Parliament next year aimed at protecting the well-being and rights of the elderly.

While awaiting the passage of the Bill, it is proposed that special consideration be given to senior citizens who can still be gainfully employed and can contribute to society if their health and welfare needs are taken care of.

Help should also be given to those who have little or no means of financial support, the sick and infirm, and those suffering from mental ill health.

The government should consider making it mandatory for developers, engineers and architects to do more to incorporate safety features in public amenities and shopping complexes for the elderly. These could include railings, ramps, extra lighting and easily-accessible toilet facilities.

To those who need a boost to their self-worth, they could be provided with facilities for social interaction in parks and community centres.

Before the provisions of the Senior Citizens Bill are finalised, the government should listen to our senior citizens, NGOs and other stakeholders to get their feedback and input. It is also recommended that the government studies the innovative retirement and care programmes that are in place in countries such as Japan.

And perhaps some other proposals could be considered, as announced recently by the Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Aiman Athirah Sabu.

Among others, she said that the ministry had conducted a study on the content, approach and scope of the proposed law, including plans to introduce a provision to make adult children responsible for their elderly parent’s welfare.

This proposal needs further study and consultation with welfare bodies, NGOs, academics, and the general public.

We should be careful not to compound one problem with another. It is the government’s duty to look after the welfare of its citizens of whatever age.

The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry has taken the right steps in proposing to introduce the Senior Citizens Bill, and it is hoped that the Bill will become law next year as planned.

TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE

Kuala Lumpur