KUCHING: The Senior Citizens Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament next year.
Among others, it is to provide provision for legal action and punishments for adult children who refuse to be responsible for their parents.
According to Federal Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Aiman Athirah Sabu, the introduction of the new law was aimed at protecting senior citizens in Malaysia and also as preparation for the country to becoming an ageing nation by 2030.
New Sarawak Tribune spoke to members of the public to get their opinion on the proposed Bill.
ALVERDTEKOSTER ANYAP, 26
Media Practitioner
I think this is a good Bill to introduce as it can help protect the senior citizens by ensuring that their wellbeing is being taken care of by their adult children.
We have heard and seen many issues where adults are not taking good care of their elderly parents.
It is our responsibility as adults to care and give back to our parents.
The proposed Bill can safeguard the wellbeing of senior citizens which is a good step towards taking care of our ageing society.
MUHD LUQMANUL HAKIM JASNI, 29
BOMBA Officer
The proposed Bill and its implementation would be a good wake up call to those who have been negligent in taking care of their elderly parents.
I understand that some may be too engrossed in catching their careers, but it is not an excuse to forget one’s duties as a child.
I definitely agree with this proposal so that adult children will take better care of their elderly parents or relatives.
FARAH AISHAH, 22
Student
I believe that it is high time such initiatives are implemented in our country.
With the increasing work opportunities, adult children should not have any excuses as to why they are unable to spare a few hundred ringgit to cater to the basic needs of their parents.
It is heart wrenching to see some senior citizens needing to go to work still when in fact they should be at home resting and enjoying their golden years.
DIANA MARIE WEI, 22
Student
I agree with the proposed introduction of this Bill as elderly parents have the rights to live free from neglect and exploitation from their own children.
Adult children should provide necessities for their parents who cannot afford to take care of themselves.
This initiative is a good measure to protect the senior citizens and make sure that their adult children are held accountable in their duties and responsibilities.
NURHAZIRAH ALIAH MOHAMMAD, 23
Student
In my opinion, some people may think that it is inconvenient to look after their elderly parents thus opting to let them to fend for themselves or sending them to an old folks home.
As children, this should not be the case because we have to be respectful to those who raised us.
The proposed Bill is indeed a good initiative because it will safeguard their wellbeing.
