SHAH ALAM, Nov 6 — Selangor aims to expand senior citizens' participation in the labour market through upskilling and reskilling programmes, as part of efforts to strengthen the Silver Economy as Malaysia moves towards becoming an ageing nation.
State executive councillor for women empowerment and social welfare Anfaal Saari said they should be regarded as assets and members of the workforce who can continue contributing to the economy, rather than as a burden on society.
The federal government's allocation of over RM40 million under Budget 2027 to train 8,000 workers in the elderly care sector would also create opportunities to strengthen the sector and drive the Silver Economy.
“The state government warmly welcomes this allocation. It is an important step towards driving the Silver Economy.
"We are moving towards becoming an ageing nation, so we want to see senior citizens as assets and active members of the workforce, rather than a burden,” she told Media Selangor.
The state is ready to work with the Human Resources Ministry and skills training agencies to implement upskilling and reskilling programmes suited to market needs.
Areas receiving attention include digital skills and the community-based economy, enabling senior citizens to remain productive and participate in the labour market.
In a related development, Anfaal said the state government is also examining a framework of incentives and recognition for employers who prioritise the welfare of employees with family responsibilities, in line with the Selangor Care Economy agenda.
The federal government’s proposal to extend leave flexibility after the birth of a fifth child also aligns with the state’s efforts to promote family-friendly workplace practices.
She added that the state government, through Wanita Berdaya Selangor (WBS) in collaboration with the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), has completed a study on family-friendly employment practices in Selangor.
It presented its findings to state leaders through a CEO Roundtable session involving companies owned by Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporation), or MBI, to develop policy guidelines for family-friendly workplaces in line with the Second Selangor Plan (RS-2).
“Regarding specific incentives, the state government is indeed examining a framework of incentives and recognition for employers who are considerate and proactive in supporting the welfare of employees with family responsibilities,” Anfaal said.
These efforts will also continue through engagement and advocacy sessions with chambers of commerce and the private sector to raise employers’ awareness of the importance of employee welfare.
“In addition, Selangor will ensure that state-level social support policies remain aligned with and complement Federal incentives, so that working people in Selangor can achieve a balance between their careers and family lives,” she said.
During the tabling of Budget 2027 on October 9, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced an allocation of more than RM40 million to train 8,000 workers in the elderly care sector.
The initiative is part of the country’s preparations for a growing elderly population, while creating new career opportunities and developing a skilled workforce to meet the care sector’s needs.
