Kerajaan perlu proaktif sedia pusat jagaan warga emas mampu milik - Berita Harian (Prof. Madya Dr. Rahimah Ibrahim, Institut Penyelidikan Penuaan Malaysia)

SERDANG, 11 June 2026 – More than 50 stakeholders from across Malaysia’s aged care ecosystem convened at the National Forum on Residential and Non-Residential Aged Care Industry in Malaysia: Is There a Way Forward? to explore strategies for strengthening and futureproofing the nation’s aged care sector amid a rapidly ageing population. The forum, jointly organised by the Malaysian Research Institute on Ageing (MyAgeing®), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), the ASEAN Centre for Active Ageing and Innovation (ACAI), the Malaysian Caregivers Association (KENDANA), the Association for Residential Aged Care Operators of Malaysia (AGECOPE), and the Malaysian Association for Social Care Professionals and Homes (MASOC CARE), attracted 55 participants comprising researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, care providers, and practitioners. The forum brought together stakeholders to discuss key challenges and emerging opportunities in Malaysia’s residential and community-based aged care services. Discussions centred on the growing demand for accessible, affordable, and high-quality care as the country transitions towards an ageing society. The forum featured a distinguished panel of experts, including Y.A.M. Che’ Puan Intan Safinaz Redzuan Ranjit, Chair of AGECOPE Wilayah Persekutuan and Founder of Laman Khaira Care Centre; Mr. Rashidi Yahaya, President of KENDANA Malaysia and Chief Executive Officer of Seterra Group; Associate Professor Dr. Edward Foo Loke Min, Head of Active Ageing and Innovation at MASOC CARE and Director of the Institute of Ageing and Professional Care, New Era University College (NEUC); and Dr. Naim Laeni, Plan and Policy Analyst at ACAI. Drawing on their extensive experience, the panellists shared insights on industry developments, policy directions, workforce challenges, service quality standards, and the critical role of multi-stakeholder partnerships in building a resilient aged care ecosystem. Discussions also highlighted the importance of strengthening governance, enhancing workforce capacity, and promoting innovative care models that support ageing in place and person-centred care. Participants emphasised the need for a sustainable, inclusive, and integrated aged care system that safeguards the wellbeing, dignity, and quality of life of older persons. The forum concluded with a collective commitment among stakeholders to foster stronger collaboration, drive continuous improvement, and advance policy and industry initiatives that will better meet the evolving needs of Malaysia’s growing older population.