KUCHING, Feb 21: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) will continue its efforts to make the city more liveable for senior citizens, says Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng.
He said how well the council strategises its plan in managing the welfare of senior citizens shall determine Kuching’s holistic progression in the next 50 years.
Following that, important infrastructure design such as senior citizen-friendly pedestrian pathways and accessible, mobility-friendly buildings were already in the city’s planning pipeline, among others.
He said this when officiating at the Sarawak Gerontology and Geriatrics Society’s (SGGS) ‘Back to 70’s’ programme held at LeFood Restaurant at Song Thian Cheok Road yesterday (Feb 20).
Wee also said that the council is adamant in creating more events and programmes to raise awareness among the younger generation and instill a sense of responsibility in old-age planning both for their senior family members and for themselves.
Apart from that, he mentioned that SGGS was incepted to create awareness towards the issue of an aging population in Sarawak, and to serve as an integrated platform in serving senior citizens.
The society promotes good health management, independence and meaningful engagement activities among senior citizens apart from providing geriatrics services to cater to the needs of the elderly.
“As we know, life expectancy has increased steadily over the past few decades. Whilst we celebrate the longevity of Sarawakians, it is imperative that the society provides opportunity for senior citizens in their personal goal fulfilment and allow them to continue contributing to the community,” he said.
He also reminded those present that it is through the sacrifices and hardwork of the elderly in building society, that the present generation gets to enjoy all the delicious fruits of their labour. — DayakDaily
