KUCHING (Oct 29): Sarawak aims to become a model age-friendly region where older persons are valued, supported and empowered, said Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
The Premier said this would be achieved through stronger collaboration among government agencies, local authorities, and community stakeholders to develop inclusive and comprehensive ageing policies that uplift all older Sarawakians regardless of background or location.
"Our goal is to strengthen collaboration among agencies in Sarawak so that our state can serve as a model for an age-friendly region," he said in a speech for the Sarawak International Conference on Ageing 2025, held here yesterday.
The text of his speech was read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who represented Abang Johari in officiating the conference.
Also present were Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah and her deputies Datuk Rosey Yunus and Datuk Mohamad Razi Sitam.
Abang Johari said local authorities will be encouraged to design facilities, public spaces and infrastructure that are elder-friendly, ensuring accessibility, safety and comfort for all.
"Meanwhile, the Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development together with the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government will continue building a comprehensive support ecosystem that enhances healthcare access, expands social services, and strengthens financial and caregiving assistance.
"Together, these form the foundation of an integrated, caring, and resilient ageing framework for Sarawak," he said.
The Premier said the Sarawak's long-term vision under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 is to create a thriving society that is economically strong, socially inclusive and deeply caring.
He said Sarawak's development must always be people-centred and inclusive, ensuring that every citizen -- regardless of age -- can live with dignity and opportunity.
"Our policies and programmes will continue to strengthen community-based care and social support systems; promote age-friendly infrastructure and environments; encourage active ageing and lifelong participation; and expand opportunities for digital inclusion and health innovation for older adults," he said.
"We want Sarawak to be a place where people do not only live longer, but they also live better."
He said the rising number of older persons in Sarawak is both a sign of success and a call to action for policies that strengthen social protection, healthcare access and community support.
"Recent findings from our Health Department remind us of the challenges such as chronic diseases, dementia and frailty, but they also remind us of what is possible when we also opportunities to act early, collaborate widely and innovate boldly.
"We are moving towards a more integrated approach to ageing -- connecting health and social wellbeing through closer partnerships among hospitals, primary care, community centres, and local councils," said the Premier.
He said through initiatives such as activity and service centres for older persons, community geriatric services, and health promotion programmes, Sarawak is ensuring that every senior citizen, whether in urban centres or rural longhouses, can age in place with the right care, connection, and support.
Abang Johari pointed out that ageing is a shared global responsibility that demands empathy, knowledge and collective action.
"By the year 2050, one in six people globally will be aged 60 and above. Here in Sarawak, our demographic landscape is also evolving," he said.
He stressed that while more Sarawakians are living longer, which is a sign of progress, longevity must come with quality of life, dignity and inclusion.
"As our society progresses, no one should be left behind. Every older person must continue to be respected, protected and included as an integral part of the social and economic fabric of our state," he said.