KUALA SELANGOR, Dec 27 — Amid the vast paddy fields of Tanjong Karang, more than 70km from Shah Alam, lies a small yet deeply meaningful space for senior citizens; the Tanjong Karang Senior Citizens' Activity Centre (PAWE), which has now become a ‘second home’ for hundreds of its members.
Since its establishment on November 1, 2021, PAWE Tanjong Karang has attracted over 600 senior citizens to register as members, with over 200 spiritual, social, and economic activities organised to ensure they remain active, cheerful, and lead meaningful lives.
Its supervisor Zubairi Hussin said the centre is not merely a place for activities, but a space to rebuild spirit, ignite hope, and foster a sense of togetherness among its members.
“Our space is small, accommodating only about 30 people per session, but the members’ spirit is extraordinary. They come not just to take part in activities, but to heal loneliness and build a new community,” he told Media Selangor.
Zubairi added that, each week, PAWE offers four categories of activities: spiritual, social, health, and economic, making the centre constantly alive with laughter, new knowledge, and the warmth of friendship.
A remedy for loneliness
For former Kuala Selangor Irrigation and Drainage Department employee Suyeati Dahlan, 65, life changed after she joined PAWE in January 2022, a year after the passing of her beloved husband.
“Since my late husband passed away, I have spent a lot of time alone as my children work far away. When I joined PAWE, I began socialising again, thinking positively and no longer feeling isolated,” she said.
Today, Suyeati is not only active in various programmes but also serves as PAWE Tanjong Karang's assistant supervisor, helping to manage members’ welfare and ensure activities run smoothly.
Activities like skills classes, community gardening, and social sessions not only invigorate the body but also nourish the soul. The retiree admits she is now more cheerful, confident, and supported by a community that values one another.
Happiness in later years
PAWE has also built a strong support network for senior citizens through collaborations with government agencies, educational institutions, and community organisations.
PAWE Tanjong Karang's assistant secretary Norlia Banori said that activities are now more organised and systematic, including collaborative programmes with government agencies.
“Our selawat group is often invited to aqiqah and wedding ceremonies around Tanjong Karang, which further strengthens our ties with the community,” said the 62-year-old, who has been active since PAWE’s early days.
Meanwhile, Siti Aminah Abdullah, 68, became involved after a friend invited her to a Qur’an recitation session, and the brief session unexpectedly opened the door to many other activities.
“From recitation classes, I started joining exercise sessions, social and spiritual activities. They calm the mind and energise the body.
"I am also active in visiting PAWE members who are unwell, offering encouragement to those facing trials,” she said.
Tourism Potential
Meanwhile, Zubairi sees great potential for PAWE in the local tourism sector, as it is not only a comfortable space for senior citizens to engage in activities, but also a destination that showcases a model of an active community.
“Tanjong Karang is famous for its paddy fields. If PAWE is promoted as a senior-friendly tourism location, more visitors could come while experiencing the culture and activities of the local community,” he said.
More encouragingly, the active involvement of senior citizens in PAWE has also led to a reduction in health-related cases at clinics, underscoring the positive impact of the physical and social activities.
PAWE Tanjong Karang is not merely an activity centre; it is a home that brings together community and inspiration, offering senior citizens the opportunity to enjoy their later years with happiness, good health, and purpose.
