KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 10 — The care economy will be included in the services sector after it was identified as having high potential to contribute to the state's gross domestic product (GDP).
State executive councillor for women's empowerment and social welfare Anfaal Saari said the services sector, which currently focuses more on health and hospitality as well as the hotel and tourism industries, should be further expanded to sustain Selangor’s position as Malaysia's economic heartbeat.
“The care economy can boost GDP and maintain Selangor’s standing as a key contributor to the national economy. This is also in line with the Menteri Besar’s message that this sector can generate substantial economic returns.
“When we realise this aspiration and visualise its measurable economic value, it will further strengthen Selangor as a prosperous state in terms of infrastructure, electronics, semiconductors, and services,” she said.
Anfaal was speaking to Media Selangor after the Selangor International Care Summit (SICS) 2025's opening ceremony, which was officiated by Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari in conjunction with the Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS) 2025 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre today.
She added that all opinions and insights shared by industry players would be given special attention to help improve future editions of SICS.
“There are many ideas and voices we can gather to take comprehensive action. Some are moderate-term or long-term in nature, requiring strong collaboration with various stakeholders,” Anfaal said.
The inaugural SICS features four main components: care engagement sessions, forums, a compassionate business-matching programme, and a care expo involving 54 exhibitors, including international participants from Finland, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Australia, and India.
Running for three days starting yesterday until tomorrow, the summit is confident it can attract over 3,000 visitors from diverse backgrounds, including non-governmental organisations (NGOs), associations, and universities.
