Senior Citizens Bill to strengthen protection for elderly, says Nancy Shukri

MELAKA: The physical and mental well-being of senior citizens will be among the key areas addressed under the Senior Citizens Bill, which is expected to be tabled in the cabinet soon, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.

She said the bill was being drafted to ensure senior citizens receive adequate protection and enjoy a better quality of life.

"The government already has policies and frameworks in place for senior citizens, and this bill is a follow-up measure to further strengthen their protection.

"The bill specifically focuses on safeguarding senior citizens so that they are protected in all aspects," she told reporters after officiating the 2026 National-Level Senior Citizens Day celebration at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) in Ayer Keroh here today.

Also present was Social Welfare Department director-general Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan.

Nancy said the bill reflected the government's commitment to strengthening support, protection and care systems for senior citizens, ensuring they remain relevant to current needs and future demographic changes.

She added that senior citizens should not be regarded as a burden, but valued and encouraged to serve as role models for younger generations as part of efforts to strengthen family values.

On independent motivational speakers, Nancy said her ministry was ready to work with relevant parties to screen individuals appointed to deliver talks and ensure they had the necessary qualifications and were of the requisite calibre.

"It would not be entirely appropriate for us to take over the responsibility (of conducting the screenings) as the matter comes under the purview of other agencies or ministries. However, we can work together by reminding those organising such talks to ensure that the speakers are of the requisite calibre," she said.

Police received a report on Sept 26 alleging that a motivational speaker had sexually harassed a child.

Perlis police chief DCP Hamzah Hashim said the report was lodged at 2.09am and the case was being investigated under Section 12 of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017. – BERNAMA