KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia should consider setting up a dedicated ministry for senior citizens to give greater priority to the needs of its ageing population in policymaking, budget planning and national development, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said.
She said older Malaysians, particularly those in their 60s to 80s, remained underserved despite their contributions to the country, with no dedicated government agency overseeing their specific needs.
Speaking at the High-Level Forum on the Silver Economy 2026 in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, Yeoh said older people should not be viewed as unproductive or no longer interested in working, but as individuals who could continue contributing to society.
She said a dedicated ministry would provide the institutional support, resources and policy focus needed to address issues affecting senior citizens, including employment opportunities, social participation and legal protection.
Yeoh also highlighted the importance of addressing loneliness and social isolation, particularly among those who were single or widowed. She said opportunities for companionship and social interaction were important to older people's physical and mental well-being, alongside healthcare and financial planning.
Separately, the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department is drafting a Mental Capacity Act to strengthen protection for older persons against abuse and neglect.
Its assistant director, Nur Shahkierin Abd Manan, said the proposed law would cover decision-making on healthcare, welfare and property, and complement the proposed Senior Citizen Bill.
She said a town hall session involving state muftis and the Syariah Judiciary Department would be held this month to gather views on the proposed framework, including matters involving state jurisdiction over Syariah affairs.