The elderly are important and valuable assets, especially to future generations, because they possess life experience and wisdom that can serve as guidance for the youth.
This was said by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad in a message in conjunction with the International Day of Older Persons.
“From the social perspective, the older population has a role in strengthening and stabilising families, and serving as ties between family members. Our elders pass down cultural values and traditions to the next generation, ensuring that heritage is not lost over time,” he added.
The minister also said that the welfare of the elderly is being addressed through a holistic and integrated approach to ensure they are cared for, supported and respected.
“In 2023, the elderly in Brunei Darussalam accounted for 10.8 per cent (48,800 people) of the total population,” he said.
“As of last month, 43,272 older individuals received the monthly old age pension. Of this number, 825 also received the disability allowance. Additionally, around 350 older individuals also receive care provider allowance as caregivers for recipients of the disability allowance.”
Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi added, “This year, Brunei Darussalam, through the National Council on Social Issues (MKIS), and with cooperation from the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), will launch the Plan of Action for Elderly: Towards Successful Ageing.
“The plan of action will emphasise the well-being, protection and empowerment of the elderly, with the objective of achieving progress and inclusivity for the older population in the nation.”
The minister also called for the elderly to be active and engage in social, religious, sports, entrepreneurial and educational activities.
As an example, he said, “We are proud of the success of an 80-year-old graduate who received his Master of Science in Civil Engineering at Universiti Teknologi Brunei.
“He serves as a role model for other elderly by showing that age is not a barrier for continued growth and lifelong learning. We appreciate the efforts from various parties, including government agencies, higher education institutions, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), families, local communities and volunteers, in strengthening the support system for older persons.”
The minister highlighted one such programme being the Dementia Awareness Programme, which has been and will continue to be conducted by the MCYS in collaboration with the MoH and Demensia Brunei, as well as research and awareness-raising programmes for the elderly carried out by the MoH in partnership with Universiti Brunei Darussalam, including “The Elderly Care Project, under the Community Development Department in collaboration with the MoH, non-governmental organisations, and volunteers”.
He added, “Since its inception in 2020, the project cares for the health and well-being of vulnerable older adults, alongside providing direct and continuous assistance. Through the project, the government provides in-kind assistance, such as milk and disposable diapers, to elder individuals according to established guidelines.
“As of this month, 46 older individuals have received the assistance, which is delivered directly to their homes each month to ensure their welfare.”
Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi said this year the MCYS is focusing on quality care.
“With the cooperation of various parties, including government agencies, private sectors, higher education institutions and non-governmental organisations, care provider courses will be offered, particularly for carers of older adults and persons with disabilities,” he said.
“Family members and caregivers are urged to fulfil their responsibilities in caring for this vulnerable group, ensuring that they receive comprehensive care and support.” – James Kon
