The proposed Senior Citizens Bill should include stronger legal protections, safer infrastructure and better community support for older Malaysians.
PETALING JAYA: The upcoming Senior Citizens Bill must place the safety and security of older persons at its core as Malaysia faces a rapidly ageing population and growing risks ranging from elder abuse to financial scams, said Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
The member of the Senior Citizen Advisory Council said senior citizens today are increasingly vulnerable to physical, social, financial and digital threats, making comprehensive legal protection essential.
“As Malaysia moves towards becoming an ageing nation, ensuring the safety and security of senior citizens must be a key pillar of the Senior Citizens Bill,” he said in a statement.
Lee said the proposed legislation should recognise every senior citizen’s right to live in a safe, secure and dignified environment, free from abuse, neglect, exploitation and discrimination.
He called for the Bill to establish clear mechanisms for the prevention, reporting, investigation and prosecution of elder abuse, including physical, emotional, financial and sexual abuse, as well as neglect.
“The Bill should also protect senior citizens from financial scams, fraud and cybercrime through stronger safeguards, awareness programmes and accessible reporting channels,” he said.
Lee also urged the government to promote age-friendly public infrastructure, including safer pedestrian facilities, barrier-free access, adequate lighting, public transport and housing designed to reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
He said minimum safety standards should be made mandatory for residential care homes and long-term care facilities, backed by regular inspections and licensing requirements.
Additionally, Lee proposed strengthening community-based support systems such as neighbourhood watch programmes, emergency response services and welfare outreach initiatives, particularly for seniors living alone.
He also stressed the importance of public education campaigns to encourage respect and care for senior citizens while fostering intergenerational responsibility.
“By incorporating these safety provisions, the Senior Citizens Bill will better safeguard the rights, wellbeing and quality of life of older Malaysians, enabling them to age with dignity, confidence and security,” he added.
