KOTA KINABALU: PKR Kota Kinabalu chief and nominated assemblywoman Grace Lee Li Mei has called on the Chinese community to step up support for underprivileged elderly Chinese in the city, particularly those from the B40 income group who are often excluded from existing aid schemes.
She said the group makes up less than five per cent of the local Chinese community, yet many seniors face rising living costs, limited access to welfare assistance, mobility challenges and unmet medical needs, often while living alone.
Grace noted that many elderly do not qualify for government aid or placement in old folks’ homes, leaving them without dedicated support.
She stressed that consistent, small-scale contributions from individuals, businesses and NGOs could make a meaningful difference.
Grace announced plans in 2026 to work with private companies, volunteers and non-governmental organisations to provide aid, home visits, community activities and weekly free meals to ensure vulnerable seniors are not left behind.
