By Ufairah Tarmidzi
GOMBAK, May 31 — Selangor is ready to face the challenges of becoming an ageing state by introducing various initiatives for its people, particularly senior citizens.
Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari said a strong protection ecosystem is essential to safeguard the welfare of this group, as Selangor is now experiencing increased life expectancy.
“In 2018, the average life expectancy in Selangor was around 75 to 78 years. However, the latest data from the Statistics Department (DOSM) shows it has now increased to 80 to 82 years.
“This clearly signals that Selangor is heading towards an ageing society and must be equipped with comprehensive social protection policies,” he said today.
He was speaking to reporters after launching the Khairat Darul Ehsan (KDE) scheme at the Ceria Selangor Carnival held at Dataran Ilham, Bandar Baru Selayang here today. Also present was the state executive councillor for women empowerment and welfare Anfaal Saari.
Amirudin said so far, 30,000 participants from the Skim Mesra Usia Emas, Iltizam Selangor Sihat, and Selangor General Insurance Scheme (Insan) have agreed to become KDE members.
KDE is a state government initiative aimed at easing the burden on next of kin by providing a RM1,000 bereavement aid.
Previously, under the 2025 Selangor Budget, the state government allocated RM20 million for the implementation of KDE, targeting residents aged 50 and above and persons with disabilities.
