Number of Elderly Rising: Azizah

Daily Express 

November 17, 2009 

Malaysia

State Community Development and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Azizah Mohd Dun said the population of the elderly (above 60 years) in Malaysia is on the increase. 

Citing Department of Statistics Malaysia, she noted that in 1970 the number of elderly persons was 5.2pc while in 2000 the figure rose up to 6.2pc and was estimated to reach 9.5pc by 2020. 

She said life expectancy (estimating the number of years remaining in person life) was increasing in Malaysia from 53 for males and 56 for females in 1953 to 71 for males while females up 80 years old. 

Hence, having more elderly persons in Malaysia was a great challenge to the Government in terms of providing relevant and appropriate social welfare services. 

Azizah said this in her speech in at the 11th Council of Sabah Senior Citizens Association (Cosca) celebration in conjunction with the International Day of Older Person 2009 at Putera Theatre Ballroom, Sunday. 

Azizah said Malaysia has done fairly well based on the national policy for the elderly, which was adopted in 1995 to establish a society of the elderly who are contended, dignified and possessed a high sense of self worth. 

Azizah also commended Non Government Organisations (NGOs) which have contributed a lot in the provision of social welfare and health services to the needy. 

She advised the elderly to stay active and healthy and at the same time be constantly be happy with positive attitude in life, stay involved socially, good eating habits, healthy lifestyles and exercise. 

"Refrain from smoking, stay wary from heavy alcoholic drinks, take plenty of rest and enough sleep and more important stay connected with family, friends, interest group and community," said Azizah. 

Presents were the President of Sabah Association of Senior Citizen Frankie Wong, President of Council of Sabah Senior Citizen Jimmy Ng and Datuk William Chai the Chairman of organising committee.

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