MIRI: The Sarawak Government reaffirms its commitment to building an age-friendly society, rolling out inclusive policies and community-based initiatives aimed at safeguarding the welfare and dignity of senior citizens.
The state’s Transport Minister, who is also Senadin state assemblyman, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, said older people remained a cornerstone of family and community life, and their contributions must continue to be recognised as Sarawak advances its development agenda.
He said the stability and prosperity enjoyed by Miri today were built on the sacrifices and hard work of earlier generations, underscoring the need for policies that protect and uplift senior citizens.
“The Sarawak Government will continue to strengthen its welfare framework and ensure the well-being of senior citizens through inclusive, people-centric development,” he said.
Lee was speaking at a Chinese New Year 2026 celebration held at the Miri Senior Citizens Service Centre on Saturday (Feb 28).
He also cited the vision of Sarawak Premier, Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, who has consistently emphasised the importance of a comprehensive, long-term strategy to create communities that are supportive of an ageing population.
In line with that commitment, the state has expanded community-based programmes, including the establishment of senior citizens centres that serve as hubs for social interaction, health support and lifelong learning.
Lee said collaboration with local authorities had also been intensified to ensure public facilities are safe, accessible and age-friendly, both in urban centres and rural areas.
At the event, he presented a RM10,000 grant to the Miri Senior Citizens Service Centre to support its annual activities, and distributed angpows to senior citizens aged 80 and above.
The move reflects Sarawak’s broader policy direction as it prepares for the challenges of an ageing society, with the government positioning senior citizens not as dependants, but as valued stakeholders in the state’s social and economic fabric.
