By Rosli Mansor and Ahmad Razali
IPOH – The Perak State Government, through the Perak Women and Community Development Secretariat, remains committed to strengthening support systems for senior citizens via the Sejahtera Warga Emas Program 2024.
Carrying the theme “Ageing with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Senior Citizens,” the program successfully attracted 300 participants from Senior Citizen Activity Centres (PAWE), Rumah Seri Kenangan (RSK), and various NGOs across the state.
Chairperson of the State Committee for Women, Family, Community Welfare, Entrepreneur, and Cooperative Development, YB Dato’ Salbiah Mohamed, highlighted the significant role senior citizens play in society as a foundation of experience and shapers of the younger generation.
“This group is not only rich in experience but also catalyzes building future generations. Thus, the State Government is committed to ensuring their welfare is continually safeguarded,” she said during the program’s launch today.
The program also benefited from corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives by ProReflexy, which offered free reflexology sessions.
In addition, the Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) collaborated to ensure the physical, emotional, and social well-being of senior citizens.
Other highlighted initiatives include the Santunan Kasih Program, focusing on holistic care for senior citizens, and the Sanjung Program, which offers affordable vacation opportunities as a token of appreciation for their contributions.
Salbiah further stated that the state government plans to strengthen the Care Economy through strategic partnerships with agencies and communities.
“Emphasis is placed on workforce training in the caregiving sector to provide sustainable employment opportunities and a more inclusive formal care system.
“These efforts position Perak as a pioneer in developing the Care Economy in Malaysia, ensuring senior citizens can lead dignified and meaningful lives.
“The State Government calls on all parties, including government agencies, NGOs, and the community, to join forces in realising this aspiration for the long-term well-being of Perak residents,” she added.
