KUCHING: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has officially become a member of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Network Age-Friendly Cities and Communities (AFCC).
MBKS Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said that the announcement of this designation reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of all senior citizens.
“In Kuching, more than 12 per cent of our population is aged 60 and above, and by 2028, Sarawak is expected to become an aging society which is two years earlier than the rest of Malaysia.
“With this reality, comes the responsibility to ensure that our elderly live not just longer lives, but better ones,” he said.
He said this during the launching of Kuching South City Council (MBKS) as a member of the WHO’s Global Network For Age-Friendly Cities and Communities at the MBKS Council Chamber today.
Wee said that being a member of the AFCC is a testament to the progress made and the shared vision for the future.
“Our journey towards becoming an Aged-Friendly City is not just about infrastructure and policies, though these are crucial, it is about community, care, and culture.
“It’s about ensuring that the elderly have access to safe public spaces, reliable healthcare, supportive housing, and opportunities for meaningful social participation.
“In collaboration with the Clinical Research Centre (CRC) team and with the great assistance from Sarawak General Hospital (GH) Geriatrician Dr Ling Jia Nee and also WHO technical officer Dr Nazirul Shamsudin, we are putting plans into action that not only address the immediate needs of our elderly population but also prepare for the future, ensuring sustained support and care,” he said.
He added that they are looking at proactive measures that ensure the elderly are supported in every facet of life such as from free medical check-ups under the Kenyalang Gold Card initiative to better public transport and elderly-friendly amenities.
“However, the strength of this initiative lies in the power of our communities. It is the people of Kuching-healthcare workers, non-governmental organisations (NGO), societies, businesses, families, and residents-who will bring this vision to life.
“I am confident that with our shared vision and collaborative spirit, we will continue to make the City of Kuching South a shining example of what it means to be an Age Friendly City, a place where every individual, no matter their age can live in harmony, safety and happiness,” he said.
Besides, the ceremony also featured the symbolic launch of the Kuching Age-Friendly City initiative with Wee and WHO representatives Dr Rabindra Abeyasinghe who accompanied Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian for the occasion.
To officially inaugurate the initiative, Dr Sim completed the launch by pressing a link on the podium which directed to the Kuching Age-Friendly City website, a platform designed to provide information on services, programmes, and opportunities available to the elderly.
