Senior citizens deserve dignity, respect and a safe place in society

On the occasion of the International Day of Older Persons on Oct 1, we must remind ourselves that ageing is not a burden to society. It is a stage of life that deserves dignity, respect, security and opportunities to continue contributing.

Malaysia is ageing. People aged 60 and above already make up about 12 per cent of our population.

This demographic change must be matched by a stronger national commitment to healthy ageing, elderly care, social protection, age-friendly communities and protection against abuse, neglect, exploitation and discrimination.

We must move beyond simply caring for senior citizens. We must empower them.

Our senior citizens have decades of experience, knowledge and wisdom. Many remain capable and willing to work, volunteer, mentor younger generations and contribute to their families and communities.

At the same time, we must never forget those who are frail, living alone, financially vulnerable or dependent on others. They need effective protection and support, not merely sympathy.

I therefore call for a stronger whole-of-society approach to ageing, involving Government, families, employers, communities, NGOs and the private sector.

Among the priorities should be:

• Expediting a comprehensive Senior Citizens Bill to strengthen the rights, protection and welfare of older persons.

• Creating more age-friendly communities, with safer pedestrian facilities, public transport, housing and recreational spaces.

• Strengthening healthcare, long-term care and community-based support for the elderly.

• Tackling elder abuse, neglect, exploitation and financial scams more firmly.

• Promoting lifelong learning, digital inclusion and suitable employment opportunities for those who wish to remain active.

• Strengthening intergenerational solidarity so that older persons are not isolated from family and community life.

Ageing should not mean losing one's dignity, independence or sense of purpose.

Let us build a Malaysia where people can grow older safely, healthily and with dignity — and where our senior citizens are recognised not only for what they need from society, but also for what they can continue to give to society.

A caring and civilised nation is measured by how it treats its most vulnerable — including its older citizens.

On this Senior Citizens Day, let us make a commitment: No senior citizen should feel forgotten, unsafe or without dignity.

Let us make ageing a journey of dignity, purpose and continued contribution.

Senior Citizen Advisory Council Member