KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will become an aging nation by 2030.
Senior citizens aged 65 years old and above are forecast to make up a full 15.3 per cent of the country’s population or 5.8 million people by then.
Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Azizah Mohd Dun said the demographic challenge has left the government with little choice but to take bold action with various initiatives, in line with the National Senior Citizens Policy and Action Plan.
This is to help senior citizens stay independent while continuing to contribute to the nation’s economy .
"Among the key initiatives are the reviewing of policies and action plans, the establishment of the National Senior Citizens Advisory and Consultative Council, promotional and advocacy, empowerment of community-based programmes and institutional care and aids,” she said.
Azizah was replying to a question by Datuk Ahmad Nazlan Idris (BN-Jerantut) during the Minister’s Question Time (MQT) in in Parliament today.
She expressed confidence that her ministry will be able to deal with the demographic time bomb.
The National Senior Citizens Policy and Action Plan and other initiatives are detailed plans in enhancing the quality of life of the elderly not only in terms of health, social and economic, but in all aspects of the elderly.
"However, the successful implementation of these policies will depends on the commitment and support from the government, private sector and NGOs (non-governmental organizations),” she said.
At the same time, Azizah said the Social Welfare Department (JKM) is ready to assist senior citizens who are in need.
She encouraged the public to forward such cases to JKM or report it by calling Talian Kasih 15999 which is her ministry's careline, to ensure that the needs of older persons are met.