KUCHING – The welfare of Sarawak’s elderly population has come under renewed focus, with calls for the expansion of existing support schemes to better meet their health needs.
Tanjung Batu Assemblyman Johnny Pang Leong Ming has urged the state government to broaden the scope of the Kenyalang Gold Card (KGC) and the Senior Citizens Health Benefit Scheme (SCHB).
He argued that while both initiatives have been well received, they must evolve to address the realities of ageing, including mobility issues and chronic health challenges.
Speaking during the debate on the Supply Bill (2026) at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly, Pang suggested that benefits should include physiotherapy, rehabilitation services, and assistance for purchasing health supplements.
These measures, he said, would help senior citizens maintain bone strength, joint health, and overall wellbeing.
“The KGC and the RM50 million allocated for SCHB are excellent initiatives. However, I hope the government can consider extending these benefits to include physiotherapy and rehabilitation as the mobility and joint health of the elderly deteriorates with age. The same goes for the purchase of health supplements, which are important to maintain bone density and overall health,” Pang explained.
Feedback gathered from mobile programmes promoting KGC and SCHB in Bintulu revealed that many elderly residents require additional support for daily health needs. Pang emphasised that these voices must be taken into account when shaping future policies.
He also highlighted demographic trends, noting that Sarawak is moving towards an ageing society. National projections estimate that more than 14 percent of Malaysia’s population will be aged 65 and above by 2040. Pang stressed that welfare schemes must be adapted to remain relevant in the face of these changes.
The Kenyalang Gold Card, introduced in 2020, provides discounts and benefits for senior citizens across Sarawak, while the SCHB was launched to cover healthcare-related costs.
Together, they represent a significant investment in elderly welfare, but Pang believes their scope must be widened to ensure long-term sustainability.
Observers have pointed out that ageing populations present challenges not only in healthcare but also in social support and economic participation.
Expanding benefits such as physiotherapy and rehabilitation could reduce hospital admissions, improve quality of life, and ease the burden on families caring for elderly relatives.
Pang’s proposal reflects growing awareness that senior citizens require more than financial aid; they need accessible healthcare services tailored to their stage of life.
His call for action underscores the importance of proactive planning as Sarawak prepares for demographic shifts in the coming decades.
