'Karnival Warga Emas' Promotes Well-being And Appreciation Of Senior Citizens

 SEREMBAN, Oct 4 (Bernama) -- The two-day National-level Karnival Warga Emas kicked off here today, aimed at empowering senior citizens and raising awareness about the importance of their well-being and active participation in society.

Social Welfare Department (JKM) director-general Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan said the annual event provided a platform for senior citizens to access information on government facilities, including free health screenings, welfare assistance, and opportunities to engage with various agencies.

“Every year we hold a programme like this, but this year we are taking a slightly different approach by organising a carnival, making it more inclusive and interactive compared to previous celebrations, which focused mainly on award presentations and inaugurations.

“We want more people to understand the importance of caring for the elderly, appreciating them, and enhancing their quality of life, including their welfare, health, and emotional well-being,” he said.

He said this to reporters at the Karnival Warga Emas, held in conjunction with the National Older Persons Day 2025 celebration organised by the JKM, which was also attended by State Women, Family and Community Committee chairman Datuk Noorzunita Begum Mohd Ibrahim.

Che Murad Sayang said the carnival, themed “Warga Emas, Wajah Masa Depan Kita”, also highlighted an intergenerational approach, fostering interaction and stronger ties between senior citizens and the younger generation.

Meanwhile, he said this year’s carnival aimed to attract up to 4,000 attendees, reflecting the community’s strong support for efforts to empower and appreciate senior citizens in the country.

“Today, we are not only celebrating the elderly but also offering various beneficial activities for the public, including the Rahmah MADANI Sales, free health screenings, exhibitions by government agencies such as JKM and the Orang Asli Development Department, as well as booths by local entrepreneurs.

“A 2.5-kilometre fun walk was also held this morning, attracting around 1,000 participants comprising senior citizens, youth, and children,” he said.

Meanwhile, Noorzunita Begum highlighted the Negeri Sembilan government’s ongoing support for programmes organised by JKM to honour the elderly and hoped that such events would continue to be held in the state.

“This is to ensure that senior citizens do not feel lonely, keeping them active through beneficial activities and social interaction with people from all walks of life,” she said.

Expressing her delight at attending the carnival, 64-year-old Siti Hawa Taha described the event as not only enjoyable but also an opportunity to gain knowledge and strengthen community ties.

“I joined the Fun Walk today, and it was really enjoyable. It was my first time taking part in such an event, and the atmosphere was lively. I felt truly appreciated as a senior citizen and hope it will be held again so more people can benefit from it,” she said.

--BERNAMA