AS Penang edges closer to becoming an aging society, the state government is implementing a series of elderly-friendly policies aimed at enhancing the quality of life for senior citizens.
From improved healthcare services to more accessible public spaces, various initiatives are being introduced to support the growing elderly population and ensure a more inclusive future.
Speaking at the Jawi constituency Chinese New Year open house at SJK (C) Pai Teik in Nibong Tebal, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow emphasised the importance of these policies in ensuring the well-being of senior citizens.
“As far as I know, Jawi Village is renowned as the ‘Longevity Village’, home to 107 senior residents aged 80 and above. That makes me feel young!” he joked, drawing applause from the crowd.
Chow highlighted the urgent need for more government clinics and advanced medical equipment to cater to the increasing healthcare demands of the elderly.
“The quality of service at government clinics is equally important, including efforts to reduce waiting times,” he said.
He praised the Health Ministry for its remarkable progress in reducing patient waiting times from three hours to just 30 minutes, calling it a significant achievement by the Federal Government in enhancing public healthcare services.
Aside from healthcare, Chow stressed the importance of streamlining administrative services to advance Penang’s development.
He also highlighted the state’s efforts in infrastructure expansion, foreign investment attraction, and job creation.
On the economic front, Chow revealed that Penang has recorded RM200 billion in investments over the past 15 years under the current administration.
“I hope the people of Penang will continue to benefit from quality education, healthcare, and an improved living environment,” he said.
Former Chief Minister and Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng, who was present at the event, thanked the Federal Government for approving the Juru-Sungai Dua elevated highway project, aimed at easing traffic congestion in the area.
Additionally, Lim expressed hope that civil servants would continue improving public services, following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent announcement of a 15% salary increase.
Meanwhile, state Local Government, Town, and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye expressed gratitude to Chow for addressing water supply issues in the south Seberang Perai district.
“We anticipate resolving the matter by 2028 through various expedited water infrastructure projects,” he said.
The Chinese New Year open house featured traditional dance performances and a sumptuous luncheon, bringing together people from all walks of life.
Among the distinguished guests were Penang State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Law Choo Kiang, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying, state Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Penang Trade, Rural Development, and Entrepreneurial Committee chairman Datuk Rashidi Zinol, and Chinese consul-general in Penang Zhou Youbin.
Story by Edmund Lee
Photos by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud