By Doreen Ling
KUCHING, Oct 28: The rise in the number of older persons in Sarawak shows that its people are living longer, and while that is a sign of progress, longevity must come with quality of life, dignity, and inclusion—calling for policies that strengthen social protection, healthcare access, and community support.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Sarawak International Conference on Ageing (SICA) 2025, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said societies are undergoing unprecedented demographic change, whereby ageing is no longer a distant concern as it has become one of the most transformative social trends of today.
He said that by 2050, one in six people globally will be aged 60 and above—a reminder that as society progresses, no one should be left behind.
“Every older person must continue to be respected, protected, and included as an integral part of the social and economic fabric of our State,” he said in his speech, which was delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also the Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government.
The Premier said that the State is moving towards a more integrated approach to ageing, connecting health and social wellbeing through closer partnerships among hospitals, primary care, community centres, and local councils.
“Through initiatives such as activity and service centre for older persons (Pusat Aktiviti Warga Emas or PAWE and Pusat Perkhidmatan Warga Emas or PPWE); community geriatric services, and health promotion programmes, we are ensuring that every senior citizen—whether in urban centres or rural longhouses—can age in place, with the right care, connection, and support,” he said.
Abang Johari also shared the State’s goal, which is to strengthen collaboration among agencies in Sarawak to serve as a model for an Age-Friendly Region.
“Our Local Authorities will be encouraged to design facilities, public spaces, and infrastructure that are elder-friendly, ensuring accessibility, safety, and comfort for all,” he said.
Minister for Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Sarawak Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah; Deputy Minister for Women and Early Childhood Development Sarawak Datuk Rosey Yunus; and Deputy Minister for Community Development Sarawak Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam were also present. — DayakDaily
