MBKS strengthens partnership with private sector to future-proof Kuching for ageing population
by Sandra Jaboh · Borneo Post OnlineKUCHING (Nov 26): In a move to future-proof the city, the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) is intensifying its collaboration with private sector partners to bolster support systems for senior citizens, said Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng.
Speaking as a panelist at the Mayors’ Meeting on Strengthening Healthy Settings under the Alliance for Healthy Cities (AFCC) in Penang, Wee shared the council’s longstanding experience in the healthy cities movement and detailed the city’s preparations for achieving ‘ageing-status’ by 2028.
He highlighted several key initiatives for the state’s ageing population, including the Hospital-Led Home Care programme.
“The Hospital-Led Home Care programme by Borneo Medical Centre delivers hospital-level services, including rehabilitation, therapy, medication support, directly to senior’s homes, reducing the need for hospital re-admissions,” he said in a statement following the conclusion of the meeting.
Wee added the Senior Retirement and Community Living project by Elica Equity offers a modern lifestyle development featuring independent and assisted living, dementia care, and long-term nursing support.
“The development includes indoor and outdoor activity spaces, therapy rooms and social areas, supported by trained caregivers, nurses and therapists,” Wee said.
He also highlighted Ibraco’s upcoming elderly-friendly apartment, which is designed with senior-safe unit layout, age-friendly facilities, and a strategic location directly opposite a medical centre and close to an Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) station.
Beyond healthcare and housing, Wee said MBKS is leveraging technology to improve daily life for seniors by enhancing its new Pay and Go parking system with an Elderly Easy Payment (EEP) feature.
“Seniors aged 60 and above only need to register once, either online or at the MBKS counter, and their license plates will be automatically recognised by enforcement wardens.
“Once registered, they can park in designated lots without manual payment or a mobile app, as fees are deducted digitally,” he said.
He emphasised that preparing for an ageing society is a collective responsibility that requires collaboration between the public sector, private partners and the community.
“The true measure of a city lies in the wellbeing of its people. A healthy city is built not only through hospitals or clinics but also through clean surroundings, safe public spades, strong community relationships and daily environments that support healthy living,” he said.
The meeting brought together mayors, public health experts, and international partners to discuss strategies for improving community well-being and preparing for future health challenges.