Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat Haji Mohd Salleh bin Haji Othman, who is also the Penghulu of Mukim Bukit Sawat, highlighted that the empowerment of the elderly is a priority for the sustainability of the nation’s future. He said this during the annual International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) celebration at Kampong Sungai Mau Recreational Park on Sunday.
“The elderly have the right to enjoy equal rights regardless of background, through support in terms of healthcare, welfare and socioeconomic. The celebration is one of the platforms to pay respect and appreciation to the elderly, especially those living in Mukim Bukit Sawat,” said the LegCo member.
In line with this year’s theme for IDOP – ‘Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide’, Yang Berhormat Haji Mohd Salleh hoped that the elderly will continue to be proactive and enthusiastic with the contributions in the form of thoughts and advice that can be given in the nation’s development and growth.
“This can include being active in activities ranging from religious, educational, social, and socio-economy, while at the same time taking care of their health by practising a healthy lifestyle.”
The LegCo member also expressed gratitude to Chai Yum Fatt from Asia Enterprise, the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation, and the Mukim and Village Consultative Council (MPMK) of Bukit Sawat for supporting the celebration.
The event proceeded with the senior citizens receiving gifts as well as the presentation of awards to Haji Mohd Hassan bin Opak for being the oldest senior citizen among the attendees at 93 years old.
Md Azman bin Abdullah and Asrat bin Amit received awards for being the most active senior citizens. Meanwhile, Siti Rasinah binti Abdullah Beniu and Sulong bin Nangkat both received awards for being the healthiest elderly. Mohd Husaini bin Haji Bolhassan and Haji Zunaidi bin Teradi received awards for being the most meritorious. Over 160 senior citizens from across the rural area of Belait District participated in the celebration.
Acting Belait District Officer Haji Amirol Hafidzin bin Haji Muhammad was the guest of honour. He along with the senior citizens and guests were welcomed by LegCo members Yang Berhormat Haji Mohd Salleh and Yang Berhormat Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann, who is also the Village Head of Kampong Bukit Sawat. – Daniel Lim
