Story by Amanda Khong
PENANG is the main destination to set up home for folks in the aging community.
It was brought up in the recently concluded State Legislative Assembly that the aging community numbers are increasing everywhere in Penang.
Kebun Bunga assemblymember Cheah Kah Peng raised this matter as it was his constituency that had the most increase in aging community.
State exco member for Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Phee Boon Poh explained in this winding up speech that he is aware of the increase of the aging community in the state.
“The increase is happening because a lot of these senior citizens are choosing Penang as their main destination because we have very good facilities and also look after their welfare here through several programmes executed by the state government,” said Phee.
The state government has taken proactive steps regarding this issue by carrying out various studies about senior citizens back in 2013.
Penang Medical College was appointed to carry out studies and several suggestions were also presented to the state government for consideration.
Phee added that the state has also launched a programme called “Let’s Live Healthy (Jom Hidup Sihat)” where the programme provides seniors citizens with activity centres and also various recreation activities with exercise facilities.
The state has also taken the initiative to encourage those in the aging community to exercise more and stress on the importance of health check-ups.
All these facilities are provided in most residential and community areas where senior citizens can strengthen friendships and promote a sense of neighbourhood.