Penang to host Integrated Care Expertise Centre to support aging population

The Malaysian government has announced the development of the Integrated Care Expertise Centre (NICE) in Penang as part of the 2027 Budget. This initiative aims to strengthen the state's preparedness for an aging population by focusing on training, research, and integrated elderly care services. Penang was selected as one of two locations for the center, alongside Sarawak.

State officials, including Social Development Committee Chairman Lim Siew Khim, noted that NICE will provide essential expertise and guidance for families managing the daily needs of the elderly. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow described the timing as appropriate, as Penang is expected to reach aging state status in the coming years.

According to Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) projections, the number of residents aged 65 and above in Penang is expected to rise to approximately 8.8 percent by 2026, totaling around 159,000 people. This demographic shift complements existing local efforts, such as the Age-Friendly City initiatives led by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP).