23-05-2025
Preparing Malaysia Towards An Aged Nation By 2030 Among Issues Debated By PKR Wanita Delegates
JOHOR BAHRU, May 23 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's preparation towards an aged nation by 2030 was among the issues raised by several representatives of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Wanita wing at the debate session on the policy speech of Wanita chief at the 18th PKR Wanita National Congress, today.
Terengganu PKR Wanita chief Armila Alias, when raising the matter, said basic care training for the elderly should be provided systematically at the community level from the health department, the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
"PKR Wanita can organise a two-way parenting module, which is not only caring for children but also caring for elderly parents, in line with our culture, which is based on family values," she said.
Armila also emphasised that the health care and emotional wellbeing of the elderly desperately need access to quality healthcare, including rural hospitals and clinics, which need to be equipped with special elderly care units.
In addition, she said community programmes such as light exercise for the elderly, mind therapy and spiritual halaqah (gathering) must be strengthened with the cooperation of mosques, Senior Citizens Activity Centres (PAWE) and women's NGOs.
In terms of women's economy and retirement, Armila proposed that PKR Wanita create a Women's Community Fund as a micro-savings and support scheme during old age, starting from the age of 40, in collaboration with relevant agencies.
Selangor representative Pua Pei Ling, the Bukit Lanjan State Assemblyman (ADUN), also agreed that the issue of caring for the elderly should be a priority in moving towards an ageing nation.
She said that so far, more than 400,000 Selangor residents have entered the elderly phase, and among the things that the state has implemented to prepare for an ageing nation is the launch of the Selangor Care Economy Policy 2024-2030, or Care Economy Policy.
Meanwhile, Sarawak representative Rebecca Beka anak Bana raised the issue of climate change, which she said affects the daily lives, economy and safety of many people.
