Perak Records Rise In People Aged 60 And Above, Reaching 15.3 Pct - LPPKN

IPOH, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- Perak has the highest percentage of people aged 60 and above in Malaysia, accounting for 15.3 per cent of the state’s total population of 2.6 million last year.

National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) deputy chairman Juwairiya Zulkifli said the matter needed serious attention as Perak was also facing a low birth rate and slow population growth of about 0.2 per cent during the same period.

“In 2024, the percentage of the population aged 60 and above was about 14.9 per cent, and it increased to 15.3 per cent last year. This development shows that the ageing process in the state is taking place rapidly.

“It is also not considered balanced with the population growth rate. In fact, this change in the population composition needs to be viewed in terms of the state’s readiness for the future, particularly as we will face a shortage of workers,” she said.

She said this when met by reporters after officiating the Perak Population Seminar 2026 here today.

Juwairiya said factors contributing to the situation included the migration of young people to work outside the state, as well as individuals choosing to return to their hometowns after retirement.

She said that if not managed properly, Perak could face a shrinking workforce, an increase in the dependency ratio and rising demand for healthcare and long-term care services.

“The issue of ageing should not be viewed merely as a burden. Instead, older people still have the potential to contribute to society if they are supported by a conducive environment and cooperation from the relevant authorities.

“This can only be achieved through strategic coordination among the federal and state governments, local authorities (PBT), academic institutions, the private sector and others,” she said.

She added that the government should look into the need to standardise regulations and enforcement concerning the elderly care ecosystem to ensure that older people receive quality and safe services nationwide.

Juwairiya said the approach was also important to help the government, private sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play their respective roles in providing more structured care services.

“Currently, many private sector players and NGOs have taken on the responsibility of providing care services. Therefore, we need to ensure that the services provided meet standards and quality appropriate to the needs of older people.

In addition, Juwairiya said the qualifications and backgrounds of workers in the elderly care sector should also be given attention to ensure that older people receive services from individuals who are truly suitable and skilled.

She said this was important as elderly care required special attention, including in terms of safety, health, as well as the suitability of facilities and infrastructure at their care centres or residences.

-- BERNAMA