More day care centres and facilities for elderly, disabled
KOTA KINABALU (July 7): The State Community Development and People's Wellbeing Ministry (KPMKR), through the General Welfare Services Department (JPKA), plans to expand the number of day care centres for the elderly and disabled in major urban areas across Sabah.
Its minister, Datuk James Ratib, said the initiative includes key projects in Sandakan, such as the proposed construction of a training complex for the disabled, a new Handicapped Children's Education Park building, and the renovation of the Sri Harapan Home for the Elderly.
At the Sri Harapan Home, which currently accommodates around 50 senior citizens, the government also plans to build a new ward costing RM2.5 million. Once completed, it will be able to house 20 additional residents and accommodate 20 more staff members.
Kota Kinabalu will also see developments under this initiative, including the construction of an integrated complex for the disabled and elderly in Inanam. The facility will offer paid day care services for 50 residents, training and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, and psychosocial support for the elderly.
In addition, a new home for elderly individuals without dependents is currently being developed in Telupid, at a cost of around RM5 million. This centre will have the capacity to house 15 senior citizens and is expected to be completed in 2026.
James said the Telupid project could serve as a model for future expansion into other urban centres such as Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu.
He made these remarks during the question-and-answer session at the State Assembly today.
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