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A BACKBENCHER has called on the young and their families to spend more time in old folks and nursing homes to visit and support senior citizens so the adage of growing old gracefully can be realised.
Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang said that old folk homes belong to the community, everyone, regardless of their age and backgrounds.
It should be a lifestyle and a culture in Penang; to devote more time with the elderly
"It is not enough just to have volunteers. The community must stopover to spend time with the old, which may include their immediate family members and relatives."
He also urged home administrators to encourage their inmates to interact with society more and to organise retelling of history sessions to the young, so the present generation understand the struggles of their older ones.
Penang is certified as one of the states with an aging population with over seven percent of its registered inhabitants aged 60 and above.
Ng together with Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh Deo visited one of the oldest senior citizen care homes in Penang - the Little Sisters of the Poor Home for the Infirm at Batu Lancang here.
The duo cheered on the senior citizens, who were treated to a heartwarming pre - Christmas celebration, complete with a lively dance session with Santa Claus, rendition of carols and a series of interactive games that brought smiles and laughter to all present.
The festive gathering is an annual event jointly organised by the Air Itam state and Bukit Gelugor parliamentary constituency offices in collaboration with private sector partners.
“This is not just a home for the elderly, but a home for all of us, because one day we too will grow old. Today, we are celebrating something meaningful together,” Ng echoed.
Ng also expressed his gratitude to the volunteers who turned up in support of the event.
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He also took the opportunity to remind the young not to forget their parents as they age.
“Life is a cycle. We will all grow old eventually. When our parents grow old, we should appreciate them and take care of them. Only when there is truly no other choice should they come to stay in a home,” he said.
He also encouraged the public to continue supporting the home through donations and contributions.
“For those who wish to donate, just come to the home and contribute in any way you can. The mothers and sisters here will welcome you with open arms,” he added. - December 15, 2025.
