OP-ED: Malaysia's aging revolution: From healthcare crisis to opportunity for dignityNovember 25, 2025
With only 67 geriatricians for a growing elderly population, a severe specialist shortage leaves Malaysia's most vulnerable facing a healthcare system dangerously unprepared for their complex needs.
A demographic revolution is sweeping across Malaysia, poised to redefine our society and challenge our healthcare system. By 2030, more than 15% of Malaysians will be aged 60 and above as we face a critical crossroad where the traditional hospital-centric model of care is no longer sufficient. However, this shift is not a crisis. Instead, it’s a powerful opportunity to reimagine how we care for our senior citizens and build a society that honors aging with dignity, independence, and purpose.
The geriatric gap: A wake-up call for healthcare Geriatrics, the branch of medicine focused on older adults, is no longer a niche specialty. It’s a national priority. Older adults face a unique blend of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social challenges. These often manifest as complex “geriatric syndromes” such as frailty, falls, incontinence, and cognitive decline, which require coordinated, interdisciplinary care. Yet, Malaysia currently has only 67 geriatricians, far short of the estimated 700 needed to meet growing demand. This shortage is compounded by a healthcare workforce stretched thin, unattractive financial incentives in geriatrics, and longer training pathways compared to countries like Australia and Singapore. The consequences are severe: long waiting times, delayed diagnoses, and overburdened hospitals. But this gap also presents a chance to invest in a better future. By training more geriatricians and empowering primary care doctors with geriatric knowledge, we can build a healthcare system that truly supports aging well. The unspoken challenge: End-of-life care and autonomy One of the most delicate, sensitive, often avoided topics which is a vital aspect of elderly care is end-of-life planning. Nearly 70% of deaths in Malaysia occur among those aged 60 and above, yet conversations about care preferences are often avoided. Without legal tools like advanced directives or durable power of attorney, families and doctors are left guessing what their loved ones would have wanted. Advance Care Planning (ACP) empowers older adults to make informed decisions about their treatment and care. It ensures their wishes are respected, even in their final days. Normalizing these discussions is not just compassionate, it’s essential for a healthcare system that values dignity and autonomy. Community innovation: Lighting the way forward Despite the challenges, Malaysia is already seeing progress. The National Policy for Older Persons (Dasar Warga Emas Negara) promotes holistic well-being, covering health, social engagement, environment, economy, and spirituality. Programs like Pusat Aktiviti Warga Emas (PAWE) help seniors stay socially connected and active. Social enterprises are also stepping up. Teman MY Ventures PLT, for example, pairs older adults with trained companions called “Temanions” who assist with daily tasks and provide emotional support. This model not only improves quality of life but also creates meaningful jobs in the caregiving sector with growing demand. Affordable care: A legacy worth preserving Malaysia’s public healthcare system has long been praised for its affordability. Outpatient clinic visits cost just RM1, ensuring access for all. But with two-thirds of outpatient visits occurring in public clinics, this policy is under pressure. To sustain this legacy, we must find ways to balance affordability with quality. Strengthening community clinics, investing in geriatric training, and integrating public-private partnerships can help maintain access while improving care. Legislation, technology, and the road ahead Big changes are on the horizon. The upcoming Senior Citizens Bill promises to protect older adults from abuse, neglect, and financial scams. It will also enshrine their rights to healthcare, safety, and dignity, bringing Malaysia closer to international best practices. But legislation alone isn’t enough. Care for older person in Malaysia is still fragmented. A unified, cross-sector strategy is needed to ensure consistent, effective care. Technology can play a key role in this aspect. Telemedicine, wearable health devices, and digital platforms can connect patients with doctors, monitor health remotely, and educate caregivers. But tech must enhance and not replace the human connection. Community engagement and volunteer programs remain vital to combat loneliness and promote holistic health. A call to action: Building a compassionate future together The future of care of older Malaysian depends on all of us to create a united, multi-sectoral approach. Healthcare providers, policymakers, social enterprises, families, and communities must come together to bridge the geriatric gap and create a system that values aging as a stage of life filled with potential, not decline. We must invest in training, reform policies, embrace innovation, and foster empathy and compassionate culture. As Malaysia’s older population grows, so must our commitment to honoring their dignity and lifelong contributions. Aging should not be seen as a burden, but as a stage of life worthy of respect, innovation, and empathy. By shifting from a hospital-centric model to a community-integrated system, Malaysia can ensure its elders live with independence, dignity, and comprehensive care. |
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