KUCHING: Sarawak is taking proactive steps to prepare for an ageing population by 2028, with the state set to host the Sarawak International Conference on Ageing (SICA) 2025 in Kuching.
Themed ‘Ageing with Dignity: Policies for Rights, Inclusion and Social Protection’, the two-day conference on October 28 and 29 at the Pullman Hotel aims to shape evidence-based strategies to strengthen elderly well-being.
Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said the initiative reflects the state’s commitment to addressing the needs of its growing senior population.
“By 2028, Sarawak will be an ageing state, with 15 per cent of the population made up of senior citizens. That is the true definition of an ageing state.
“Therefore, we feel the need to take a closer look at the situation of the elderly in Sarawak and assess what needs to be done to ensure their well-being is maintained,” she said.
She said this during the ‘Juh Randau’ programme organised by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS) on Friday.
Fatimah added that the event would serve as a platform for experts from within and outside Malaysia to share insights and best practices, helping Sarawak formulate effective policies and facilities to support its elderly population.
“We hope that with the experts we have specially invited, including from countries with experience in addressing ageing issues, it will be able to help Sarawak formulate policies and provide the necessary facilities,” she explained.
The two-day conference will feature a keynote address entitled ‘Care Across Generations: Policy, Research and Innovation for Malaysia’s Ageing Society’, followed by two plenary sessions, three thematic forums, and six concurrent sessions discussing policy issues, well-being, technology, economics and cross-border cooperation networks in sectors such as health, housing, urban design, financial security and social care.
Among the key topics that will be highlighted include ‘Healthy Ageing with Dignity: Policies for Rights’, ‘Inclusion and Social Protection, Aged Care Through the Global Lens’, ‘Age-Friendly Cities Initiatives’, and ‘Economic Empowerment and Financial Security for Ageing’.
Fatimah explained that the conference will be part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the state’s strategy towards building a healthy, independent and dignified ageing society.
A total of 450 participants from home and abroad, including academics, policymakers, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and health and social care practitioners, are expected to attend.
SICA 2025 is anticipated to be a starting point for the formation of holistic and inclusive policies to ensure that senior citizens in Sarawak continue to live with dignity, prosperity and enjoy a quality life throughout their golden years.
