Claudia Mahler, the UN independent expert on the human rights of older persons, said a comprehensive policy framework was needed to ensure Malaysians maintained their economic productivity and dignity at an older age.
She called for the provision of comprehensive pension schemes, affordable healthcare and legal protection against abuse and violence for senior citizens.
“Older persons face neglect, violence and exploitation. Yet, there are no comprehensive legal frameworks to protect them,” she said, urging the government to act swiftly.
Mahler was speaking at the conclusion of a 12-day official visit to Malaysia, which included stops in Kuala Lumpur, Sarawak, Penang and Perak.
During her visit, Mahler was invited by Putrajaya to report on the progress, opportunities and challenges in safeguarding the human rights of older people in Malaysia.
She raised concerns over possible unreported abuse of the elderly, particularly those who are no longer economically active.
She criticised government-sponsored conversion therapies for older LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) individuals.
“These practices can put the rights of older LGBT individuals at risk. Being older, they are generally less aware of sexual orientation and identity rights, making them more vulnerable to harm from such ‘therapies,’ which can amount to ill-treatment or torture.”
She also expressed concern over financial insecurity among older Malaysians, especially those in informal employment or the low-income bracket, saying the absence of a general pension scheme left many older folk financially vulnerable.
She said Malaysia faced a severe shortage of social workers and geriatricians, posing challenges to elderly healthcare.
“There are only 68 qualified geriatricians in Malaysia, despite international standards requiring at least 600,” Mahler said, adding that another issue was barriers to healthcare access, particularly in rural and remote areas.
Mahler called on the government to ensure elder-friendly and affordable healthcare services, as well as for the establishment of common standards for care homes and community-based care settings to battle loneliness.
The UN expert also called for inclusive policies that address the unique needs of marginalised groups, such as elderly indigenous persons, stateless persons and older members of the LGBT community.
“These groups face intersectional discrimination, especially in accessing information and services like healthcare and social services,” Mahler said.
She also urged the government to engage extensively with stakeholders in drafting the Senior Citizens Bill, which is currently under review.