KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 — The government is considering a new law that would legally obligate children to care for their ageing parents, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said today.
Speaking to reporters after launching the National Social Policy Action Plan 2026-2030, Zahid said the proposed legislation aims to introduce a legal framework placing clearer emphasis on filial responsibility.
“The proposed law will focus on the responsibility of children in caring for their parents,” he said.
“Several countries have already implemented similar legislation, but Malaysia is still at the stage of discussion and review.”
Zahid has instructed the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development to prepare a policy paper on the proposed Act within six months.
The paper will then be presented to the Cabinet for policy approval before any legislative drafting begins.
The deputy prime minister stressed that the move is crucial to ensure that Malaysia’s social and moral fabric remains intact as it progresses toward developed nation status.
He also warned against the erosion of religious and cultural values, stressing the need to balance material development with spiritual and moral obligations.
“All races and religions place importance on the duty of caring for one’s parents, although different countries may adopt different approaches,” Zahid added.
“Malaysia has its own social values and identity that must be preserved and strengthened.”
He confirmed that the government will study legal models from other countries that have enacted similar "filial responsibility" laws.
However, he gave his assurance that any framework developed for Malaysia will be carefully aligned with local culture, religious sensitivities, and social conditions.
