By 2030, Malaysia is projected to become an aging country, with a significant increase in its elderly population. Aging occurs when the percentage of the elderly population surpasses that of the younger population in a given area or country. Currently, 6.73% of Malaysia’s population consists of people aged 65 and above. However, in 2020, Perak emerged as the “oldest” state in Malaysia, with 11.9% of its population aged 65 and above—higher than the national average.
As the baby boomer generation in Perak enters its elderly years, the need for support services has escalated, especially for the underprivileged elderly. Among the critical needs identified is the provision of non-slip tripod walking sticks, which will be distributed to elderly beneficiaries across the state.
These walking sticks will offer essential support to prevent falls and injuries, a growing concern as elderly individuals face an increased risk of brittle bones and fractures. Many of the elderly also have diminished vision, further compounding mobility challenges.
The objectives of Project Mobility are to reduce accidental injuries from instability during movement, provide increased mobility and support for the elderly, and foster greater independence and improve the quality of life for elderly individuals.
A total of 700 walking sticks will be distributed across Perak, targeting key areas with the assistance of Rotary Clubs. These areas include:
- Kerian
- Taiping
- Kuala Kangsar
- Ipoh
- Sitiawan
- Teluk Intan
Rotary Clubs involved include:
- Rotary Club of Kamunting
- Rotary Club of Kerian, Bagan Serai
- Rotary Club of Kuala Kangsar
- Rotary Club of Taiping
- Rotary Club of Taiping Lake, Taiping
- Rotary Club of Ipoh
- Rotary Club of Sitiawan
- Rotary Club of Teluk Intan
- Rotary Club of Greentown
- Rotary Club of Kinta
- Rotary Club of Metro Ipoh
Leadership and key contributors:
- Rotary Club of Ipoh Central President: Dr. Jiva Kandasamay
- Assistant Governor: Dr. Monesh Pillai
- Project Chair: Past District Governor Dato’ Bindi Rajasegaran
- Secretary: Ms. Abirashiny Pillai
Special guests in attendance include District Governor Arvind U Gopi Kumar, President-Elect Dr. Nageenthren, and Dr. Hj Saiful Azlan, Pengarah of HRPB Ipoh.
The project is sponsored by Past Governor Dato’ Jimmy Lim.
Through Project Mobility, Perak is taking active steps to ensure that the elderly population receives the support they need to lead safer, more independent lives. This initiative highlights the commitment to community well-being and the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by the aging population in Malaysia
Source:Rotary Ipoh Central FB
