MELAKA, Oct 3 — The physical and mental well-being of senior citizens will be among the key areas addressed under the Senior Citizens Bill, which is expected to be tabled in the Cabinet soon, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
She said the bill was being drafted to ensure senior citizens receive adequate protection in various aspects of life, enabling them to enjoy a better quality of life.
“The government already has policies and frameworks in place for senior citizens, and this bill is a follow-up measure to further strengthen their protection.
“The bill specifically focuses on safeguarding senior citizens so that they are protected in all aspects,” she told reporters after officiating the 2026 National-Level Senior Citizens Day celebration at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) in Ayer Keroh here today.
Also present was Social Welfare Department (JKM) director-general Datuk Che Murad Sayang RamJanuary
Nancy said the bill reflected the government’s commitment to strengthening support, protection and care systems for senior citizens, ensuring they remain relevant to current needs and future demographic changes in the country.
She added that senior citizens should not be regarded as a burden, but instead valued and encouraged to serve as role models for the younger generation, in line with efforts to strengthen family values.
Commenting on the issue of independent speakers, Nancy said her ministry was ready to cooperate with relevant parties to screen individuals appointed to deliver talks to ensure they had the necessary qualifications and calibre.
“It would not be entirely appropriate for us to take over the responsibility (of conducting the screenings) as the matter comes under the purview of other agencies or ministries. However, we can work together by reminding those organising such talks to ensure that the speakers are of high calibre,” she said.
According to media reports, police received a report on September 26 over an allegation of sexual harassment of a child by a motivational speaker.
Perlis police chief DCP Hamzah Hashim said the report was lodged at 2.09am and the case was being investigated under Section 12 of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017. — Bernama
