KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 — Selangor is empowering its care economy with strategic partnerships, including with the United Nations Children’s Funds (UNICEF), towards a more inclusive social protection system, said state executive councillor for investment, trade and mobility Ng Sze Han.
He said the state government is also working with the Khazanah Research Institution to evaluate the sector, besides strengthening support for the field under the Second Selangor Plan (RS-2).
He added that this effort must continue as Selangor is expected to house around 1.3 million senior citizens by 2040.
“The care economy must be seen as a long-term investment opportunity. Facilities needed by 2035 must be planned and funded by now. Efforts we have worked on so far are also showing results.
“We want this sector to create high-skill, high-paying jobs, and for partnerships with local companies to improve care service quality.
“For the state government, a strong economy must be translated into better quality of life for the people. With labour capabilities and infrastructure like KLIA, I’m confident that Selangor is on the right track to lead this effort,” he explained during a Hot Seat Session at the Selangor International Care Expo (SICE) here today.
SICE was held under the auspices of the Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS) at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Ng also said the state government is ready to work with local authorities to prepare clearer guidelines to attract investment to the care sector.
“The state is open to execute pilot projects for new care models and is ready to work with the federal government to expand the use of effective models,” he added.
Previously, state executive councillor for women empowerment and welfare Anfaal Saari said the care economy will be boosted under the 2027 Selangor Budget with a focus on sustainable financing and training to improve the sector’s workforce.
She said the state government will refine several aspects to ensure women receive the appropriate support, including by improving training modules to upskill caregivers.
