SHAH ALAM, Sept 1 — The state government, through the Second Selangor Plan (RS-2), is adopting a comprehensive approach to address the growing elderly population, including formulating universal design guidelines to be implemented in stages across Selangor.
State executive councillor for women empowerment and welfare Anfaal Saari said this measure is crucial to ensuring Selangor remains a state that is livable for residents at every stage of life.
This is after the percentage of the population aged 65 and above in Selangor rose from 6.9 per cent in 2020 to 8.1 per cent in 2024.
The total fertility rate (TFR) in the state, meanwhile, stands at approximately 1.5 to 1.6 children per woman, well below the population replacement level of around 2.1 children.
“This means that in the long run, not only will the elderly population continue to rise, but the growth of the younger generation entering the workforce is also slowing down.
“This shift will place pressure on the elderly dependency ratio, whereby the ratio of the elderly population to the working age population will gradually increase,” she said in a written reply to Media Selangor regarding the state’s preparations for an ageing society under RS-2.
Anfaal said that population ageing should not be viewed merely as a welfare issue concerning senior citizens, but rather addressed as a broader development challenge for the state as a whole,
In this regard, she said the state government aims to build an ecosystem capable of supporting the growing elderly population, including by creating environments and public facilities that are more senior-friendly.
“This includes placing emphasis on universal design, particularly in public spaces and facilities.”
At the same time, she said social support networks will be strengthened through the Selangor Care Navigator programme to ensure that elderly individuals requiring care receive appropriate welfare support.
Anfaal said the roles of associations and community organisations also need to be empowered to encourage more initiatives based on the “people helping people” concept.
“Furthermore, health screenings, community centres and activities for the elderly need to be enhanced so that they can maintain a healthy, active lifestyle and enjoy good social connections.”
She stressed that the state government’s goal is not just to ensure people live longer, but to ensure they enjoy their later years in good health, remain active and live with dignity.
