Penang on track to ensure the best for the aged

PENANG recorded 85 per cent progress in implementing programmes and initiatives under the Age-Friendly City Penang Island (AFCPI) strategic action plan as it prepares to ensure proper care for the ageing society.

State executive councillor in charge of welfare, Lim Siew Khim Lim (Sungai Pinang - PH), said the progress was measured based on the framework spelt out by the World Health Organisation.

It covers eight key domains aimed at creating an inclusive and accessible city for senior citizens.

“By last year, the overall quantitative progress, including KPIs and achievements under the Age-Friendly City framework by WHO, was at 85 per cent for programmes and projects under the Penang Island Strategic Action Plan,” she told the 40-member legislative assembly.

According to progress reports from the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), there have been significant achievements recorded across the eight domains, especially in areas of accessibility and healthcare.

For outdoor spaces and buildings, the state recorded 89.3 per cent progress through upgrades to parks and public spaces to make them more senior-friendly

The transportation sector achieved 88.6 per cent progress, including improvements to the stage public bus fleet and transport subsidies for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

 “For housing, achievements reached 100 per cent through improvements in safety and facilities in public housing areas. The social participation sector has also achieved 100 per cent following the implementation of inclusive community programmes and workshops for all segments of society."

The community support and health services sectors also reached 100 per cent through comprehensive health and safety initiatives, said Lim.

Lim also said the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC) continues to play a key coordinating role to ensure accountability and ongoing improvements.

“PWDC acts as the coordinator by working closely with MBPP to ensure intervention and improvement measures are implemented more effectively and continuously,” she said.

 She added that the agency conducts periodic monitoring and evaluation across all domains to identify implementation gaps. - May 13, 2026.