By Yasmin Ramlan
SHAH ALAM, Nov 28 — The state government has set a long-term vision to become a care economy hub with the launch of the first policy of its kind in Malaysia.
The Selangor Care Economy Policy (DEPNS) (2024-2030) document, published yesterday, also outlined a short-term vision to position the state as a leader in “inclusive, sustainable, and resilient care economy”.
The 74-page document also noted Selangor’s mission to become a progressive state that boasts a dynamic ecosystem grounded in the principles of a compassionate society and the synergy of various stakeholders.
According to the policy, it was established to address the supply and demand gap for care-related issues, as well as challenges faced by every targeted group.
To ensure that it is effectively implemented, the state government has collaborated with households, communities, and private sectors.
The document stated that the policy was enacted by taking into consideration several matters, including Selangor’s commitment to prioritising the socio-economic needs of the people, in line with the First Selangor Plan (RS-1).
“Through the DEPNS, the strategic objectives of RS-1, including strengthening the economy and enhancing social welfare and inclusion, can be translated and benefit the people.
“An effective care economy action plan will contribute to Selangor becoming a smart, livable and prosperous state,” it said.
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Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari (centre left) with state executive councillor for women empowerment and welfare Anfaal Saari (centre) right for photos during the launch of the Selangor Care Economy Policy at Wisma Dewan Negeri Selangor in Shah Alam, on November 27, 2024. — Picture by MOHD KHAIRUL HELMY MOHD DIN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
The DEPNS was also drafted by considering Federal government policies, including the 12th Malaysia Plan, as well as input by experts, academics, heads of agencies, non-governmental organisations, industry players, and the community, via the Selangor Care Economy Symposium 2023.
The policy aims to benefit target groups, including the elderly, children, disabled persons, as well as formal and informal caregivers, by promoting a shared responsibility for the whole of society.
It outlines strategies and actions by aligning existing initiatives and proposing new, holistic collaborations that can be implemented in the short- and medium-term up to 2030.
"To ensure its success, the policy must be embraced as a shared commitment across the state government machinery.
“It should span across development and governance portfolios, encompassing main sectors including health, education, housing, transportation, welfare, investment, manufacturing, and services, as well as legislation at the state and local government levels,” said the document.
The policy has three primary objectives, the first being to serve as a reference document to guide initiatives and programmes that ensure better availability of care services and equipment in Selangor over the next six years.
It also aims to recognise the care sector as a viable and promising sector in Selangor's economy, emphasising diverse and high-quality services supported by good governance, while creating income and job opportunities for all walks of life.
The final objective is to acknowledge and support the welfare of both formal and informal caregivers, and ensure holistic care for individuals of all ages, genders and income levels through approaches including home-based care, community-based care, and institutional care.
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Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari speaks during the launch of the Selangor Care Economy Policy at Wisma Dewan Negeri Selangor in Shah Alam, on November 27, 2024. — Picture by MOHD KHAIRUL HELMY MOHD DIN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
