Preparing for an ageing nation

Photo: Pixabay

FOLLOWING Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri’s call for public feedback on the Senior Citizens Bill (“Public feedback sought on Senior Citizens Bill”, Sunday Star, June 7; online at bit.ly/star_feed), I would like to share my thoughts.

The Senior Citizens Bill presents an opportunity to shape how Malaysia supports ageing in the decades ahead.

Globally, many countries have shifted from viewing ageing as a social welfare issue to recognising it as a matter of rights, inclusion and participation.

Older persons are increasingly seen not merely as recipients of care but as active members of society entitled to dignity, independence and equal opportunities.

The proposed recommendations being discussed in Malaysia’s Bill reflect this evolving approach. They include accessibility rights, independent living, community care, digital inclusion and stronger social protection. These are progressive aspirations and broadly consistent with international trends.

However, translating aspirations into practice will require careful planning and adaptation to Malaysia’s realities.

One important concept gaining international recognition is “ageing in place” – enabling older persons to continue living independently within their homes and communities for as long as possible.

Countries such as Japan and Singapore have invested substantially in community care, home support services and age-friendly neighbourhoods.

Malaysia has traditionally relied on family-based support. While this remains a cultural strength, smaller family sizes, urban migration and changing demographics may place increasing pressure on caregivers.

Future policies may therefore need to consider:

> Home-based care services;

> Caregiver support programmes;

> Respite care facilities;

> Community activity centres; and

> Incentives for family care­givers.

Without these supporting systems, ageing in place may remain difficult for many families.

Accessibility should not be confined to ramps and lifts. Public transport, housing design, digital services and healthcare facilities all influence how older persons participate in society.

Nevertheless, implementation requires balancing ambition with practicality.

Retrofitting older infrastructure nationwide could involve considerable costs. A phased approach prioritising new developments while progressively upgrading existing facilities may be more realistic.

Financial preparedness remains another major issue. Many Malaysians rely heavily on retirement savings and family support.

As life expectancy increases, retirement periods become longer. Countries facing ageing populations increasingly encourage active ageing through flexible employment, lifelong learning and reskilling programmes.

Malaysia may similarly need to consider:

> Post-retirement employment opportunities;

> Anti-age discrimination measures;

> Flexible work arrangements; and

> Opportunities for continued contribution by older persons.

Older people should not be viewed solely as dependants; many remain active contributors to families, communities and the economy.

Healthcare demand will inevitably rise with population ageing. Beyond hospitals and clinics, attention may also be needed on:

> Long-term care systems;

> Nursing home standards;

> Community healthcare services;

> Home nursing support; and

> Assistive technologies.

Long-term care remains an emerging area in Malaysia and may require stronger regulatory and support frameworks.

The Senior Citizens Bill should not merely address present needs. It should anticipate the realities Malaysia may face over the next 20 to 30 years.

The objective should be to create an environment where older persons remain independent, active and respected while ensuring families receive adequate support.

As the Bill moves towards completion in the coming months, broad public consultation involving senior citizens, civil society, healthcare professionals, employers and industry groups will be essential.

Ageing is not an issue affecting only older persons. It concerns every Malaysian because ageing is a future shared by all.

WONG SOO KAN

Petaling Jaya