State welfare assistance for 30,000 reflects Melaka’s support for ageing population

MELAKA: Close to 30,000 locals have received assistance under welfare initiatives reflecting the state government’s push to strengthen social support amid Malaysia’s shift towards an ageing population, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh says.

The Melaka Chief Minister said the assistance amounting to RM1.49mil until the end of November 2025, forms part of the state government’s efforts to address demographic changes while ensuring the well-being of all segments of the community.

“Malaysia is expected to reach ageing nation status by 2030, with 15% of the population aged 60 and above.

“This shift requires early preparation and a more strategic policy approach,” he said at the launch of a carnival held in conjunction with the celebrations for Senior Citizens Day, Persons with Disabilities (OKU) Day and Children’s Day in Ayer Keroh here on Thursday (Dec 4).

Ab Rauf said the state government continues to channel welfare assistance to eligible groups through various forms of targeted support aimed at easing burdens and improving the quality of life.

He said data from the Statistics Department (DOSM) showed that Melaka currently has 106,900 senior citizens, with Alor Gajah listed among the country’s 10 newly ageing districts, where residents aged 65 and above reached 7% this year.

“This figure clearly demonstrates the importance of strengthening the senior citizen support ecosystem in the state.

“In line with this, we remain committed to supporting federal initiatives, including the development and provision of Senior Citizens Activity Centres (PAWE),” he said.

Ab Rauf also noted that as of this November, 37,356 persons with disabilities (OKU) had registered with the state Welfare Department, while RM300,000 had been allocated for the autism children development programme.