Stories of ungrateful children abusing and abandoning their aged parents never fail to draw our disgust and disapproval, but there seems to be little consequence for such unfilial behaviour other than pointed comments and pity for the parents, even until today.
In an announcement made on December 14, our Deputy Prime Minister Wan Azizah revealed that by the year 2020, there will be a new law in legislation that’ll safeguard the rights and welfare of the elderly. Once passed, this law will penalise any children who abuse, abandon, or neglect their ageing parents. Furthermore, the law will address age discrimination and ensure elders their rights and access to services in their golden years.
Source: The Star
Dr Wan Azizah also announced that the ministry is working with the UN to develop an “age-friendly city“, establishing 29 new activity centres nationwide to encourage senior citizens’ community participation. “The main (goal) of the project is to encourage the elderly to participate in local (urban) planning, besides creating a friendly environment for them,” Dr Wan Azizah said.
Currently, RM3 million has been allocated through the 11th Malaysia Plan this year towards that end; while RM80,000 has been set aside to improve facilities and purchase new equipment at existing centres; and RM33,333 has been earmarked for operations, as reported by New Straits Times.
Earlier this year, the Pakatan Harapan government also reduced EPF contribution amounts for employees above 60 from 6 per cent to 4 per cent, as this would give employers an incentive to hire the elderly. This was introduced along with tax incentives for the employers. The seniors also do not need to contribute to EPF, thus giving them more disposable income.
Source: The Edge Markets
The government’s commitment to the rights of the elderly is a massive step towards a better Malaysia.
With their wealth of experience from long-lived lives, our elders are just as valuable an asset to our society as our women and children (both of whom have specific laws protecting their rights). Being core contributors to our nation in their prime, giving the elderly the voice and support allows us to show our respect and gratitude to the past generation.
Ultimately, affording the elderly due dignity and respect is more than mere obligation, it’s something we do to preserve our Asian values and maintain a just society that we can all be proud of.
What do you think about this upcoming law – are you for or against it? Let us know in the comments below!
Also read: 7 Things We as Kids Hated Our Parents for But Totally Understand Now that We’re Older
