KUCHING: The Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development (KPWK) Sarawak welcomes the Federal Government’s proposal to introduce the Parental Care Act as an effort to strengthen the welfare and wellbeing of senior citizens in the country.
Its Minister, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, stated that families inherently play a primary role in ensuring that senior citizens continue to receive the care, attention, and affection they deserve, in line with the cultural and religious values of society in this country.
According to her, a study that has been conducted by Swinburne University found that most elderly individuals are more comfortable spending their later years in their own homes with their families rather than being placed in care centres.
“We are indeed expected to care for our parents, as they cared for us during our childhood,” she said.
She stated this during a press conference after chairing the Sarawak State-Level Special Committee on Citizenship Status (JKKSK) Meeting No. 2/2026 under Article 15A at the Sarawak State National Registration Department (JPN) office on Friday.
Dato Sri Fatimah was commenting on the announcement by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi that the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) has been tasked with drafting and tabling a Bill related to elderly care to the Cabinet within the next six months.
In the meantime, she noted that the implementation of such a policy must take into account the current circumstances of families to ensure it is carried out comprehensively and effectively.
She added that some families face economic challenges, including children without stable incomes who must also support their own spouses and children.
She further emphasised that the policy must be inclusive, considering senior citizens who do not have children or heirs, as well as those whose children are facing hardships due to poverty.
Furthermore, she highlighted that Sarawak’s involvement in the legislative drafting process is crucial to ensure that its implementation aligns with the conditions and needs of the community in the state.
Dato Sri Fatimah also stressed the importance of a holistic approach to ensure the dignity and wellbeing of the elderly are preserved, while fulfilling the wishes of the majority to remain in their own homes throughout their twilight years.-UKASnews
