KUCHING – The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has initiated its first Age-Friendly City Workshop to address the city’s transition into an ageing society by 2028.
The event convened government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academics, and community leaders to develop strategies for inclusive urban development.
Dato Wee Hong Seng, MBKS Mayor, emphasized the urgency of proactive planning, noting that demographic shifts will impact healthcare, transportation, and public infrastructure.
He urged participants to contribute innovative ideas for the Kuching South Ageing Plan, highlighting that preparedness today will determine the quality of life for future seniors.
Professor Ida Fatimawati Adi Badiozaman of Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak presented key findings on ageing challenges, including healthcare accessibility and social inclusion gaps.
The workshop aligns with MBKS’s commitment to the WHO Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities, focusing on accessible infrastructure and intergenerational dialogue.
Judy Kho, Chairlady of the MBKS Age-Friendly City Committee, affirmed ongoing stakeholder consultations to adopt global best practices.
Recent initiatives include collaborations with Singapore Management University urban expert Aidan Wong to integrate child-friendly and age-friendly policies.
MBKS’s broader efforts include the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy designation and Child-Friendly City recognition, underscoring its holistic approach to inclusive development.
The council also plans to expand the Child Council platform, fostering youth engagement in civic planning. Participants pledged support for policies promoting dignified ageing and community empowerment.
