Nibong tebal: The government plans to establish up to 20 new Senior Citizens Activity Centres (PAWE) nationwide this year to strengthen community support systems for the elderly. Social Welfare Department (JKM) director-general Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan stated that each PAWE established would receive an annual grant of RM50,000 to implement programs and cover operating costs.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, there are currently 217 PAWE nationwide with nearly 49,000 active members, highlighting the importance of these community centres for senior citizens. The proposal to add up to 20 new PAWE this year is contingent on available allocations. Datuk Che Murad mentioned that each centre receives RM50,000, and the number of additional centres will be determined based on the available funds.
Che Murad Sayang provided these updates after the Semarak Sejahtera Warga Emas PAWE programme at Jalan Sungai Acheh, which was officiated by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, who is also the Nibong Tebal Member of Parliament. He elaborated that the centres function as venues for senior citizens to engage in community-based activities, focusing on social outreach and developmental aspects involving strategic and multi-sectoral collaboration.
The PAWE concept emphasizes community-based, intergenerational, and interactive programme elements, offering facilities for senior citizens to engage with the community. The objectives include diversifying facilities for the well-being and development of the elderly, improving their quality of life, and appreciating them through the sharing of their experience and expertise.
Che Murad highlighted the importance of intergenerational PAWE programmes aimed at connecting senior citizens with the younger generation through the transfer of knowledge, skills, and cultural heritage. These programmes could help generate income for senior citizens through the production and sale of products like handicrafts and traditional food, while strengthening social bonds across different segments of society.
He also mentioned the introduction of the PAWE Anytime, Anywhere, Any Place (PAWE 3A) concept to assist communities without dedicated premises, ensuring that senior citizens' activities can continue through collaboration with mosques, surau, or other community facilities. A grant of RM20,000 is provided under this concept to support social outreach and development activities for senior citizens.
Additionally, he announced that the Sungai Acheh area has been selected as a Kampung Angkat MADANI (MADANI adopted village) under the department this year, with various programmes planned throughout the year.