This Content Is Only For Subscribers
KUCHING, Aug 2: Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian commended Kuching South City Council (MBKS) for its collaboration with Curtin University Malaysia in making Kuching City South an exemplar of the World Health Organisation’s Age-Friendly Cities Framework.
Dr Sim expressed his hope for MBKS and other relevant authorities to continue playing their roles in ensuring the city provides ideal facilities for a livable environment through effective policy implementation, service delivery, and community engagement.
“We must create an environment in our community that caters to the needs of the elderly and enhances the quality of life for all,” he said.
Dr Sim further highlighted the significance of partnering with MBKS, the largest of the local councils, which has taken strides towards environmental sustainability, achieving net-zero carbon emissions, becoming a plastic-free city, and embarking on smart city initiatives. These efforts are crucial as the city’s population continues to age.
He made these remarks during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Curtin University of Malaysia and Kuching City South Council (MBKS).
The MOU was signed by Professor Simon Leunig, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Curtin University Malaysia, and MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng in MBKS headquarters today.
Dr Sim, who is also the Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, emphasized that this partnership between the university and MBKS is essential to align with over 500 cities in 37 countries that are actively working to become more age-friendly.
“This means that our city council and Curtin University Malaysia are taking proactive steps to support our aging population because this is our city; we want to make a difference for ourselves, not just sit idly by. We cannot rely solely on divine intervention; we must take action ourselves,” Dr Sim asserted.
Kuching City South is home to a population of 174,625, with 10.4 per cent aged 65 and above in 2020, indicating that the city is on the verge of becoming an aging society.
Deputy Minister for Public Health and Local Government Michael Tiang, Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Women, Childhood, and Community Well-Being Development Noriah Ahmad, and Pro Chancellor of Curtin University Malaysia Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri George Chan Hong Nam were present at the MOU signing ceremony. — DayakDaily
