KUCHING: The Sarawak government remains committed to ensuring proper living arrangements for the elderly, whether through family reintegration or care facilities.
Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said this is part of ongoing efforts to safeguard their dignity and well-being.
She said there is a need for comprehensive support systems, particularly as Sarawak transitions into an ageing society.
“This is a heartbreaking issue. We do not want to see our senior citizens left in hospitals without dignity. We must ensure they age in a healthy and respectful manner,” she told reporters at the Sarawak Hun Nam Siang Tng Hari Raya gifts presentation for the underprivileged, here today (Mar 29).
Fatimah also pointed out government initiatives to enhance elderly care services.
She said currently, Sarawak has 12 registered elderly care centres, with research by Swinburne, Curtin, and UTS universities focused on improving these facilities.
“With more senior citizens in our society, we must strengthen support systems to ensure their well-being,” she added.
Fatimah also noted the benefits of elderly day-care centres, where families can drop off their elderly parents in the morning and pick them up in the evening.
“This is a win-win solution. While their children are at work, the elderly receive proper care, meals, and engage in activities that prevent loneliness and keep them active,” she explained.
The arrangement also helps reduce risks associated with leaving elderly individuals home alone, such as falls or missed medication.
She acknowledged that many people are unaware of these services and stressed their importance in ensuring no senior citizen is left without proper care, especially in their final years.
“We want our senior citizens to age with dignity, not be left behind,” she said.
